The murder of Sarah Everard has brought sexual harassment and violence in the UK into sharp focus.
Evoking fear, anger, and grief in women and non-binary and gender-nonconforming people, who are also marginalised under gender oppression. Here are a variety of resources and information:
Facts:
97% of women aged 18-24 in the UK have been sexually harassed
80% of women aged 25 and older said they had experienced sexual harassment in public spaces
55% didn’t think the incident was serious enough to report
45% didn’t think reporting it would help
[From UN Women UK]
“It is not a woman’s responsibility to keep safe on the streets, it’s the responsibility of perpetrators not to attack them.” – Dr Rosena Allin-Khan
To Watch:
Consent – it’s as simple as tea
They told me to change my clothes. I changed the law instead | Gina Martin TED Talk
Violence against women – it’s a men’s issue | Jackson Katz TED Talk
Addressing the violence towards trans women and trans femmes | Jamie Windust
#NotAllMen
“When we speak up about women’s oppression and abuse, obviously we know it’s not all men. But when 1 in 3 women are assaulted by a man in their lifetime, it’s enough men to make all women afraid.“ – Kristina Maione
In 2019 government research estimated that 4% of men have experienced some type of sexual assault since the age of 16.
In 2017 research for the BBC found 18% of men had experienced unwanted sexual behaviour at work.
Safety Information:
Women taking steps to keep themselves safe is important, but it is not the solution.
- HollieGuard is a next-generation smartphone app that provides enhanced levels of protection. It is free and available on the app store.
- Enable location permissions on WhatsApp, share your location with someone or attach to a group chat.
- Ask for Angela is a scheme to help if you feel uncomfortable at a bar or restaurant, ask for Angela and staff will be able to help you leave discreetly.
Useful Websites:
Emotional Health & Wellbeing | SCG
Help after rape and sexual assault | NHS
Sexual Harassment | Victim Support
Women against rape
Survivors UK