TW: Sexual harassment, sexual assault, rape.
Since the death of Sarah Everard, almost 9 months ago, the UK has been more aware of the dangers of sexual harassment. For some, they only represent the beginning of more serious issues. But others are recognising these are serious issues alone. More are talking about their own experiences, and whilst in many cases, it finishes with a comment, more are recognising that sexual harassment is rooted in much more oppressive views.
So, what is the proposed Sexual Harassment Bill? It is likely to include numerous incidents, such as purposefully touching someone in public, consistent sexual propositioning in the streets and cat-calling. Furthermore, Dr Charlotte Proudman indicated that it will include perpetrators as those who yell at women, making them feel uncomfortable or unsafe when walking.
Whilst some believe these comments are compliments, rather than aggression, the normalisation of these issues are part of the problem. Whilst the victims of these crimes are ‘used to it’, and those unaffected are often unaware, this harassment highlights the misogyny in our society. With 97% of women and girls experiencing some type of sexual harassment, this problem is clearly a plague in our society. There are reports of girls changing their behaviour, their clothes, their walk to schools, to avoid these persistent comments.
Whilst the harassment itself should not be diminished, it can be the beginnings of even more traumatising events: assault and rape. Tackling these incidents from the foundations is the best way to begin. Where this power is removed from (often) male perpetrators from the beginning, perhaps it will make them question whether their actions are appropriate.
Despite this, misogyny will still not be considered a hate crime. Whilst some suggest this is due to the issue of policing it, the fact this will still not be included suggests deep discrimination towards women remains in our society. If misogyny was to be reported, we would be able to understand the trends, and increase education to deter these views. Despite this yet to be achieved, the Sexual Harassment Bill may be the first step of many in reducing violence against women and girls.
This is so much more than a new law. It highlights the recognition that women and girls experience injustices every single day. Every person has the right to feel safe in public spaces, yet currently this is not equal across all genders. Whilst there are concerns as to how this will be policed, those drafting the Bill believe once it becomes law, it will be policed better by society. Furthermore, the Bill itself recognises the need for societal change. Hopefully, this is a chance for women and girls to understand that this behaviour should not be accepted, no matter how normalised it is.
---- Mary Collingridge, Women's Officer
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