Another domestic violence case, another slap on the wrist. Violence against women is prominent. Nearly one third of American women have been subject to some form of physical violence. This primitive behavior has been blatantly spoken out against, but silently condoned. Words only do so much to comfort. There needs to be repercussions towards this behavior.
Another domestic violence case, another slap on the wrist. Violence against women is prominent. Nearly one third of American women have been subject to some form of physical violence. This primitive behavior has been blatantly spoken out against, but silently condoned. Words only do so much to comfort. There needs to be repercussions towards this behavior.
In recent media, the coverage of football player Ray Rice held a tone of praise for the NFL suspending Rice indefinitely and terminating his contract with the Baltimore Ravens. This praise was undeserved at best. Both actions should be standard, not praise worthy. Only after a national outcry did NFL and Raven’s officials go through with the punishments. Previous to that, Rice was defended. Too often we take someone’s favorable characteristics and use them as an excuse for someone’s actions.
Plain and simple, he did what he did and it should not have been covered up or condoned.
A standard for first time offenders involves a intervention program and counseling in lieu of jail time. This so-called punishment is unacceptable. No one should be let off with little or no consequence.
It sends the message that the first hit is free of charge.
Too often, the blows come from behind closed doors—in this case, behind those of an elevator. Many men have strength that is unfairly superior to a women’s and they have used it accordingly. Often so, without being caught. Victims avoid seeking help out of fear of further victimization by a society that asks what was done to deserve it. There is nothing that can be done to deserve senseless beating by somebody who has a clear upper hand.
Many women succumb to the violent men in their life and fall victim to an abusive cycle. Rather than teaching women how to avoid getting hit, we need to teach them how to speak out and how to get help. We need to teach boys not to hit girls and for men to follow suit. Conversely, there are men who suffer physical violence from women in their life. They need help just as much as women.
This issue is bigger than football. It is bigger than Ray Rice. It is an issue that deserves attention and one that needs clear repercussions.
