The issue of sexual violence has been highlighted by a recent incident at Cornell University in the United States, where a woman, referred to as Jane Doe, accused seven men of gang-raping her in a fraternity house. The incident has sparked concerns about the culture of sexual violence and the consequences faced by perpetrators. According to the lawsuit, Doe was given alcohol and ketamine, and a photograph of her was posted on a fraternity Snapchat group with a degrading caption.
The response to the incident has been criticized, with some expressing concern that the accused men's lives might be ruined by the accusations. However, the focus should be on the consequences of the men's actions, rather than the potential consequences for them. The incident highlights the need to teach men about consent, respect, and accountability, rather than just teaching women how to avoid being victims. This includes addressing the culture of excuses and justifications that perpetuate sexual violence.
The issue of sexual violence is not limited to the United States, with South Africa also experiencing high levels of gender-based violence. According to the South African police, 11,430 rapes were reported in just three months at the end of 2025, an average of about 124 every day. Many survivors do not report incidents due to fear of being laughed out of the police station or not being believed. This underreporting makes it difficult to accurately assess the scale of the problem.
The World Health Organization estimates that one in three women has experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner, non-partner, or both during their lifetime. The issue is not just about the perpetrators, but also about the culture that allows and perpetuates sexual violence. This includes the idea that "boys will be boys" and that men can control their behavior. Excuses like these only serve to justify and perpetuate the problem.
The Jewish community has been vocal about the need to listen to victims of sexual violence, particularly in the context of conflicts. However, this demand for attention and action must apply equally to incidents within their own communities and not just when perpetrators are outsiders. The community needs to be willing to have uncomfortable conversations about sexual violence and to take action to prevent it.
To prevent sexual violence, it is essential to change the way society thinks about and addresses the issue. This includes teaching men about consent, respect, and accountability, and encouraging them to speak out against behavior that makes them uncomfortable. It also involves holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and not letting them off lightly. By working together, it is possible to create a culture that values and respects women and does not perpetuate sexual violence.
Ultimately, preventing sexual violence requires a fundamental shift in societal attitudes and culture. This includes recognizing that rape culture is not just created by rapists but also sustained by every excuse, joke, justification, and instance of victim-blaming. By speaking out against these behaviors and holding perpetrators accountable, it is possible to create a safer and more respectful society for everyone.
Key points
- The culture of excuses and justifications perpetuates sexual violence by allowing perpetrators to go unpunished and victims to be blamed.
- Teaching men about consent, respect, and accountability is crucial to preventing sexual violence.
- The issue of sexual violence requires a fundamental shift in societal attitudes and culture to create a safer and more respectful society for everyone.
