Triggers are those scents, images, statements, attitudes and/or feelings which evoke either positive or negative reactions from an individual. The trigger that instigated this editorial is the attitude of inequity that was exhibited by a current Senator of the 21st Legislature of the Virgin Islands during the legislative hearing on Bill 30-0060 and Bill 30-0109. It was during this hearing, that the Senator clearly stated her lack of support for a bill which would provide protection for spouses, men and women who are the victims of rape or domestic violence (Bill 30-0600) and a bill that would provide distinct definitions of sexual contact for clarity in sexual assault cases (Bill 30-0109).
It is with much hurt, anger and disbelief that I listened to a policy maker make uneducated, erroneous accusations towards women who are in domestic violence situations as well as towards those who are raped by their partners. As a survivor, I am hurt because the statements that were made, and the manner in which they were made (laughing to be specific), have the potential to negatively impact the emotional psyche of other victims who may have listened to the senator. Her statements have the ability to completely dissuade victims from identifying resources that can help them to heal and bring justice to their perpetrator. As a woman, I am angry that in the 21st century when men can be at the forefront of women’s rights and human rights altogether that still, there are women who refuse to support a mentality that promotes respect and negates violence. Lastly, as the Executive Director of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Council (DVSAC), I am in disbelief that a policy maker could lack such sensitivity.
The Women’s Coalition of St. Croix was particularly attacked and wrongfully defamed. As a partner of the organization, I wish to applaud the leaders, staff and advocates of the program for filling a gap in crisis interventions, shelter services and system advocacy on St. Croix. The on-going efforts of TWC and their partners to improve the quality of life for men, women and children in this community need not be overshadowed by the negativity of individuals who encourage violence and represent crudeness.
In closing, I understand that everyone is entitled to their own opinions and attitudes. However, as a leader in a community where domestic violence and sexual assault are on a rise, and as a woman who is not exempt from becoming a ‘1 in 6’ statistic, the time to face the harsh realities of these crimes is now. In the words of John F. Kennedy, It is my hope that the senator will recognize that ‘the rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.’
Editor’s note: Khnuma Simmonds-Esannason, the executive director of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Council, is a survivor of domestic violence.
