While questioning what action to take after the date rape of a friend, Slate Magazine's Dear Prudence advised that rape apologism would be the quick and easy fix.
The publication warned to not report the rape because it could be "construed to be consensual."
According to the writer seeking advice, at one point, the victim said the sexual assault was a one night stand but later confessed her date had raped her.
"Say you understand her shame, but you're concerned about her drinking and if she addresses that, she won't find herself in such painful situations," the column said.
Advising a friend to disregard sexual assault is not only a heinous recommendation; it also perpetuates the idea that victim blame in perfectly acceptable.
The publication should at least issue an apology if not terminate the columnist who provided such detrimental advice.
Tell Slate Magazine: Don't advise rape apologism!
We the undersigned would like to express our concern with the Dear Prudence article in which rape apologism is advised.
The decision to publish the letter and then to advise readers to blame the victim in cases of date rape is deplorable.
This advice severely alters the reputation of your publication.
We ask you to issue an apology and consider terminating the writer of Dear Prudence.
Thank you for taking our concerns into serious consideration.
