Quite frankly why Feministing's Jos had to write this boggles the mind.
The phrase “aggressive, unwanted sexual encounter” or just “sexual encounter” seems to have originated with The Oregonian and spread freaking everywhere (with some minor and even more disturbing alterations). Then there were spins on the wording like “unwanted sexual activity.” Oh, and of course there was “sex scandal.” Then there’s the version that for some reason has disturbed me the most, “non-consensual sex,” which even appeared on RH Reality Check.
A violent mugging = Unwanted physical encounter?
A kidnapping = A non-consensual use of your time?
A murder = End of life scandal?
The Oregonian’s “sexual encounter,” calling an act of violence a “sex scandal,” and spreading the dangerous false category of “non-consensual sex” is lazy, irresponsible journalism. And it’s part of how rape culture spreads.
Rape:
1. the unlawful compelling of a woman through physical force or duress to have sexual intercourse.
2. any act of sexual intercourse that is forced upon a person.
Statutory rape
sexual intercourse with a person who is below the age of consent as defined by law
The Myth:
Rape is primarily a sexual act.
The excuses:
Your dress and actions are suspect.
Culture:
Your credibility, previous sexual activity and private life may all be made public.
Resulting in:
Guilt, embarrassment and humiliation.
Conclusion
Rape is a crime of violence not sexual desire, yet our culture leads it to be one of the most under-reported crimes.
Use rape, attempted rape, accused of rape: Rather than some mealy mouthed words involving sex
How many more times do we have to read this crap?
How many times do we have to say this?
Rape is Rape, attempted or otherwise.
Just as presumption of innocence should be the norm.