Man Enough

From September 26, 2018

How is it that it that in this country it is more shameful to be raped than to be a rapist?

On Monday, I put my body on the line for survivors and for the future of this country. Together, we stormed the Capital Hill and demanded justice for Christine Blasey Ford, Debbie Ramirez and Anita Hill. I was arrested along with 127 other courageous activists who believe what’s at stake is worth the risk.

One of the most moving demonstrations that day was a group of men organized by Ady Barkin who risked arrest in solidarity with the women who’ve been leading the fight to #StopKavanaugh and end sexual violence. I felt relief knowing that some of our brothers were there and had our backs. But I was also struck by how few of them there were.

Where are the men (and by “men” I mean the sis-gender men who benefit from this system)?

Where are the men saying “#WeBelieveWomen” and “It’s never ok to rape”?
Where are the men taking responsibility for their actions during a time when it was “normal” to exploit, subjugate, pressure women?
Where are the men busting down senate doors yelling “HELL NO” to Kavanuagh’s confirmation?
Where are the men putting their bodies on the line and getting arrested in the name of their sisters and wives and daughters?

I say all of this while being blessed with really good and radical men in my life. Men who show up and model honesty and humility. But we need more than a few brave souls.

I don’t doubt that women are going to lead this movement and save our future. But it would move a hell of a lot faster if millions of men would show up and follow our lead.

-Kerri

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