At the end of last month, the IPEA (Institute of Applied Economic Research) released the results of a survey showing that the majority of those interviewed (almost 60%) believe that wearing appropriate clothing would prevent rapes. The research of the IPEA found that we live in a “social system where we are subordinate to men,” and that “violence plays a key role.” There is nothing new in that information.

Do not think that just Brazilian women think that way. A recent survey in England revealed the same folly. Half of the women said that the blame for rape is partly with the victim herself, because she dressed provocatively, she danced in a lascivious manner, or she flirted at the wrong time. How come? It is not our ‘tupiniquim’ vision. It is an outdated and archaic view that should never exist.

All women and men interviewed live in the same society as you and I do. They are not aliens. What is wrong with those creatures? I’m asking this question, but unfortunately, so far, I cannot find an answer.

We all live in a sexist and patriarchal society. Unfortunately, the sexism rooted in our culture, needs to be deconstructed in relation to various social and cultural aspects. Therefore, the fight is not individual, but collective. We need to change the society as a whole.

I feel great pain when I realize that both sexes think the same way. This is so reactionary, stupid and cowardly. If we women are oppressed, our rights and our body and soul are violated. We are women and men at the same time, and we must combat violence. This outrage resonates for all beings equally, without gender, color, race or creed. All with one voice: As the human race!

 

‘It is not the way I dress myself, It is your sexist view that is criminal!’

 ‘Nobody deserves to be raped.’