What is victim blaming?

Victim blaming is when the victim of a crime or any wrongful act is held entirely or partially at fault for the harm that befell them (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victim_blaming)

 

Why is addressing victim blaming important?

If victim blaming is normalized through attitudes and beliefs then more people start to believe it and those that subscribe to rape myths and victim blaming are more likely to commit acts of sexual violence.

Its important for the public to be educated on Sexual Violence to stop victim blaming.  Gymnast/survivor Ali Raisman is speaking up for victims and calling out those that enable abusers.

 

Some ways to stop victim blaming

1. Believe the victim
2. Let the victim know it’s not their fault
3. Hold the perpetrator accountable
4. Challenge the enablers
5. Focus on the language that is being used
6. Call out rape jokes
7. Educate

 

 

Vermont Resources:   https://vtnetwork.org/

National Resources:   https://www.nsvrc.org/

https://www.rainn.org/

Tags: Ali Raisman, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Survivors, Victim Blaming