Break the Cycle: How Skateboarders Can End Rape Culture Why talk about rape culture in skateboarding? Rape and sexual misconduct is perpetrated by and affects all skaters. Recently, survivors have been sharing their experiences of sexual harassment and assault within the skate community. Clearly, we’ve got work to do. Let’s start by defining what rape culture is, how it harms our community, and what we can do about it. What is rape culture? Rape culture is when actions and beliefs create an environment where sexual harassment, assault, and violence are normalized. Some examples of how people perpetuate rape culture include slut-shaming, sexualized jokes, catcalling, degrading graphics, and disrespecting someone’s boundaries. How can we end rape culture and prevent sexual violence? We don’t need to be perfect, but it is our responsibility to push toward progress. Here are some facts, actions, and frameworks to consider: The Non-Negotiable: If someone is underage or Take a Stance: Change can begin with a few words. If you hear or see something troubling, speak intoxicated, they legally cannot consent. up. Phrases like “That’s not cool!” or “Are you okay?” Ask, Don’t Assume: Consent is a clear and active can make a big difference. Change The Lineup: If someone in your squad agreement. Consent requires an enthusiastic yes gets called out for sexual misconduct, address it and is never coerced. One way we can normalize head-on. Support companies and crews who will affirmative consent is by practicing it in everyday change their team when skaters refuse to change situations. For example, obtain consent before themselves. Act Locally: Rape culture doesn’t just exist giving advice, by simply asking someone, “Hey, can elsewhere - it exists in spaces we occupy everyday. I help you with that?” The work can start with you and your friends. Have you had a conversation with someone close to you Hold People Accountable: Accountability is about rape culture? As you educate yourself and not punishment. When people mess up, we must unpack your own behaviors, are you sharing this address their actions so they understand the harm information with peers? How are you elevating and they caused and have an opportunity to change. supporting local survivors?
As skateboarders, we are part of a powerful and influential global community. Through our collective actions, we can not only end rape culture within skateboarding, but also transform society as a whole. @concent_is_rad
