The Issues of Gender Based Violence and Inequalities

This source is relevant as it highlights the issues of gender based violence and inequalities that have occurred in the past against African American women. Through the contents shared in this source, readers can understand how racial discrimination contributed to sexual abuse against women of color. Furthermore, the information shared by McGuire (2011), relates to my interests in the study of gender and sexuality. The cases of the black women who were beaten and raped by white men are eye-opening and reflect the social injustice and discrimination against the African American community. These cases show how people with social, economic or political powers may abuse their status to oppress vulnerable individuals. For instance, the cases highlighted by McGuire demonstrate how “white privilege” thrived in America during the 1940s. 

In a society whereby vulnerable and minority communities are directly affected by social inequality and injustice, this source reminds me of some of the gender and sexual abuse that both men and women face. For instance, members of the LGBT community have been violently attacked due to their sexuality whereas minority communities are victims of socioeconomic inequalities. It is unfortunate that the same forms of prejudice and discrimination that took place during 1940s continues to exist in the 21 st century – where people are believed to be more informed and educated about social issues related to racial discrimination. For instance, the case of Recy Taylor can be related to the most recent women’s advocacy against sexual violence, the Me Too Movement, has elicited local and international attention on the topic of sexual assault against women. Just as Rey Taylor, the movement encourages women to stand up for themselves and against their perpetrators to seek justice. Through the media, women are able to create awareness and offer moral support to victims of sexual violence. 

Reference 

McGuire, D. (2011). At the Dark End of the Street:  Black Women, Rape, and Resistance- a New History of the Civil Rights Movement from Rosa Parks to the Rise of Black Power. Vintage Books