[DV_listserv] Judge's Opinion eviscerates idea of "perfect victim"

[Domestic Violence issues]

Recently, a judge in Canada presided over a rape case in which he ultimately found the defendant guilty and issued a 179 page opinion. Though I've only read excerpts, the judge seems to uniquely understand sexual assault dynamics, the impact of trauma, and the myths (and challenges) too often associated with the inevitable victim-blaming that occurs in these cases (whether in Canada, the U.S., or anywhere around the world). (The case analysis starts roughly on page 155, the findings begin on page 163.)

Perhaps even more powerful, however, is the victim's statement:

"I am tired of people talking to me like I won some sort of rape lottery because the legal system did what it is supposed to.
My experience is regarded as a demonstration of progress in sexual assault cases in Canada. I am expected to feel good because a few people within the system believe me. If we are told to be grateful for receiving the bare minimum, and that we should simply allow for social institutions to further oppress us and violate our rights, I am incredibly concerned. Accepting things simply as they are because "it could be worse" is the antithesis of progress."

Read the story and the complete text of the judge's opinion and the victim's statement, here:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/marvin-zuker-dispels-myth-of-perfect-rape-victim-in-verdict_us_579612f1e4b02d5d5ed22235

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