TO THE EDITOR:
We are responding to the “Intimidate Rapists” signs posted around campus.
While we understand that these messages were created in solidarity with survivors, we feel that they perpetuate a violent culture.
In particular, the “Intimidate Rapists” message with the image of a club drawn on the side of the Campus Y displays a threat of physical violence.
We do not believe that hostility should be fought with hostility, but rather with educational dialogue that engages all members of the Carolina community.
Our goal is to support survivors of sexual violence and foster a safer campus.
Posting threatening messages and vandalizing property are unproductive actions that create a division in our community. We must build a community of allies through inclusive discussions on rape culture and how to create change.
Instead of responding in an aggressive manner, anyone who wants to get involved may do so through various campus organizations and by engaging their peers in healthy and constructive conversation.
For example, Campus Y has been hosting a variety of sexual assault forums. While we understand the sentiment behind these signs, we feel that they propagate a negative culture that causes people to reject recent efforts to support survivors.
