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Editor:
I'm completely outraged with George W. Bell's "Date rape victim ought to 'take control' of her own life" (Oct. 24). I recently was sexually assaulted. During the assault by a good friend, I was gripped by such fear that all I could say was, "No, this is not going to happen." I did not yell, scream, hit, or really move because I was terrified. Nonetheless, I did say that I was unwilling to perform the act. Also, I made several non-verbal attempts to reveal my thoughts such as not looking at him, not responding, and as much as I could tried to move away, which was difficult in the constrained position I was in. For me, that was the best I could do to say "no."
Mr. Bell, I don't think that you understand what it feels like to be completely dominated by a male or to be too terrified to even talk. Whether or not Jessica made her position absolutely and expressly clear, she never consented and by law that is what justifies her position. In addition, after such a dramatic experience, every single relationship you have is analyzed and re-evaluated as to how much you can trust the individual. After my incident, I was scared not to talk to my attacker because I was unsure of what his reaction would be and whether that reaction would harm me in any way. This is quite possibly why Jessica feels the need to continue her relationship with her attacker. When she is finally ready to confront the issue herself and admit what has happened she will be able to confront her attacker - or maybe she never will.
Regardless, each woman heals from such a devastating attack individually. In addition, the victim of a rape or any other sexual assault should never be blamed because they did not ask for it. No one asks to be mentally or physically demeaned. Mr. Bell, your conclusion of "the more virgins are raped, the more women there will be who say yes to sex" is so preposterous I can't even believe you actually verbalized the thought. I suggest that next time you choose to voice your opinion that you should develop a basic understanding of the subject before you respond.
Ryann C. Phillips
pre-education sophomore
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