Standing against 'revenge porn and rape culture' - Erín Toland
Recently, reality star Rob Kardashian shared naked images of his ex-girlfriend online in a bid to humiliate her for the demise of their relationship which he clearly blames her for. Now, none of us can say what is or isn’t true in the long list of Rob’s claims.
What is absolutely disgusting and disappointing is the reaction on social media. People- both men and women- jumped on these naked images like vultures, eager to humiliate this woman who did not give her consent to have these published. In a society full of #girlpower and white feminism, you would think we would take a moment to realise when a woman has not given her consent to a private image being shared, you should not help to spread it. People shared the images all over social media. If you were one of these people, ask yourself why? Because you believe what the man has accused her of? Because you think she should be shamed for sending them in the first place? If you have any of these thoughts, you are a victim of the rape culture we all live amongst.
Sexism has existed since the beginning of time. Even in the creation of Christianity, the notion of the ‘virgin’ Mary sends a clear message- women who enjoy sex or even take part in it aren’t ‘pure’. While there are obvious plot holes in the immaculate conception story, it serves as a perfect example of sexism. No woman could ever live up to that image of so called perfection.
Nowadays, there is still the huge problem of sexism in different forms. Rob Kardashian didn’t show the messages of him begging for naked pictures, but was happy to share the final result. Just as many men in our everyday lives do. There are websites dedicated revenge porn, set up to humiliate a woman for being a sexual being- as all humans are. Many women’s lives are ruined when their naked pictures are sent through group chats and they suddenly become the butt of a joke. Why should women be ashamed of being sexual? The men clearly aren’t being shamed for asking for such images. It shows a clear divide in society which has lasted the test of time- women should be pure, like the immaculate conception, while men can do whatever they want without shame.
It is so important that when we see any attempts to shame a woman with material used without her consent, whether by a celebrity or someone you know, that we do not condone this behaviour and stand up for the victims of revenge porn and rape culture.
- Erín Toland, Donegal