We’re still talking about rape. But not for the right reasons.

I have an aunt who lives way out in the woods of Nebraska. Chadron, actually, beautiful country, pristine land, amazing wildlife. She doesn’t have a landline at her house – or electricity, for that matter (by choice). And it was only relatively recently that there was a cell tower near enough to allow  her to get a phone with a local provider to have regular phone access. Still, it’s a basic plan, with limited minutes (the two of us get chatty) and between our two schedules, I’m only able to catch up with her once or twice a month.
 
My aunt loves that I work at EMILY’s List and is a big supporter of our women and issues. So when we do catch up over the phone, she likes to know everything that’s been going on, who we’re endorsing, what we’re working on, if there will be a POP training in Nebraska. Lately, I feel like every time I talk to her, we end up talking about the latest Republican rape gaffe. I wish we weren’t. But it keeps happening. So we’re still talking about it.
 
We’re still talking about rape. But not for the right reasons.
 
We’re still talking about rape because #LiberalTips2AvoidRape was trending for two days with a slew of comments mocking rape victims.
 
And we’re still talking about rape because Fox News host Bob Beckel suggested rape doesn’t happen on college campuses. Later informed of his ignorance, he did issue an apology, where he took the opportunity to demonstrate his complete comfort with talking about rape by saying the word “rape” 8 times in his 77 word statement.
 
And that’s just this week.
 
You know how we’re not talking about rape? As it relates to rape and other domestic violence victims’ protection through the yet-to-be-passed-by-the-House Violence Against Women Act.
 
Nope. Not there.
 
Don’t worry, House Republican leaders are getting ready to maybe start thinking about talking about discussing VAWA probably next week, maybe.
 
You know why we’re not talking about a bill that offers support and protection for women and families who are victims of violent crimes?  The Constitution. Biased Native American juries. And apple pie.
 
I may have misread that last one, but pie makes about as much sense as Rep. Jimmy Duncan’s actual explanation.
 
Either way, the conversation is misguided. And it’s telling that Republicans continue to talk about rape in the most offensive and unproductive ways, while continuing to drag their feet on the Violence Against Women Act.
 
Enough. Go take your sensitivity training, and don’t use your out-loud voice for your next rape thoughts. Because, really, guys. I’d like to talk to my aunt about something besides rape this weekend.