“Ask Erin” Tackles the Question: Can a Woman Rape a Woman?
Months before the #MeToo movement began as a hashtag on social media in October 2017, I received a private message on Facebook from a former high school peer that answered a lifelong question re: the night I was raped.
As a survivor, I understand the confusion, shame and self-doubt that can prevent victims from stepping into their truth. But I can also attest to the necessity of this ownership in order to begin to heal.
Ravishly‘s Managing Editor and “Ask Erin” advice columnist, Erin Khar, tackled an imperative and complex question regarding rape. And confirmed in no uncertain terms the exact definition of the crime.
“I want to make something very clear with my answer — yes, a woman can rape another woman. A woman can also rape a man. Rape is nonconsensual sex. The legal definition of rape, as defined by The United States Department of Justice is “Penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.”
Read the compelling story of one survivor trying to make sense of a nonconsensual experience with another woman.
If you or someone you know have questions re: sexual assault find out more at Safe Horizon and RAINN.
