Addressing Rape Culture in the Age of Trump
So… Here we go!
This weekend has been a doozy for parents. Who would have thought a Trump candidacy would lead to political pundits arguing about p*ssy on TV! There seems to be no way to avoid the bile coming out of Trump’s mouth. Even when you don’t actively watch the news. The toxic sludge is everywhere.
Nonetheless, I’m doing what I always do and using these “opportunities” as teachable moments to talk with my now 11 year old girls about sexism and rape culture. I’ve decided, if Trump is going to be the poster child of how NOT to behave, I and other parents need to step up and talk about what’s right.
If I’m really honest though, I have to reflect on the fact that it has to take someone so awful to get us talking about stuff we should already be talking about. Social norms may teach us not to pick our noses in public, but they also keep structural racism, sexism, and homophobia firmly in place. We are taught not to talk about certain body parts, rape culture and misogyny for a reason. Societal taboos tell us what we CAN and CAN’T talk about and ensure we never begin addressing oppressive systems in the first place.
Addressing Rape Culture in the Age of Trump
With that in mind, I’m saying… “Thank you Donald Trump, for getting this conversation started!” (Yes, I’m saying it!) And now that we’re talking… let’s fight back agains rape culture and discuss some key points with our kids:
#1. It’s called a VAGINA
Look we all love the fun and funny names that folks come up with for various body parts, and especially those that comprise our reproductive systems. It’s important to talk about body parts and teach your kids the REAL names for all of them… Say it Addressing Rape Culture in the Age of Trump - SF Public School MomSF Public School Mom:
