Bill Cosby found guilty

[rjmacs]

RAMd®d wrote:
Please don't victim shame.

Please don't mischaracterize the truth my statement as shaming. It's stupid of you to do so.

The fact is if one doesn't say something, nothing gets done. And yes, sometimes even when someone says something, nothing gets done.

It's an imperfect world.

Yes, and I recognize that I play a part in that imperfection. There have been times in my life I have questioned or dismissed accusations of sexual misconduct brought against powerful men by women as being likely motivated by financial gain, or as compromised by the 'questionable character' of the accuser. I was acculturated to be skeptical of such claims, despite also having been raised to respect women and condemn sexual assault. I never questioned whether NDAs might be used by powerful predators to silence dozens upon dozens of victims through intimidation and payouts. I didn't really listen to victims so I could understand better how paralyzing and terrifying speaking about trauma and abuse is, and what kind of support is needed to enable victims to come forward.

I'm grateful for #metoo because it has taught me how to be a better man, a better friend and colleague, and how to play an active part in contesting abuse, from stupid sexist comments all the way to violent assault. I'm done with criticizing victims about when and how they come forward to speak, I'm finished interrogating the character and morals of people who have experienced trauma, and I've changed the balance on what I find credible/likely on first hearing.

I invite you, and everyone here, to join me.