Earlier today, Ched Evans was found not guilty by a jury of his peers for the rape of a teenager. This verdict is the result of an appeal fuelled by Evan's defence team following a previous "guilty" conviction. Mr. Evans has maintained his innocence throughout his incarceration and legal battle. This post is directed to him and the millions of influential young men out there who have the celebrity and influence to make a difference. As much as I respect the legal system, I cannot help feel uneasy about the evidence given at Mr. Evan's appeal. The victim, identified as "X" was called to relive her ordeal on the stand, as well as have her sexual history handed to the press as proof of her character. The testimonies were crass and crude. Two young men noted how the victim preferred to be "fucked harder" and that that therefore justifies the incident that took place in the hotel room with Mr. Evans and two other men. It was also stipulated that even though the victim was intoxicated, her consent was given. She was nineteen years old when the alleged rape took place. Mr Evans has been proven not guilty but I refuse to believe that "X" is lying. I refuse to believe that even though he is not guilty, he is therefore innocent. "X" believes that on that night, in that hotel room, she was violated. Because she was violated. It is unfortunately our society that decides on the "grey area" when it comes to rape and it is therefore sending an incredibly harmful message to any victim of sexual assault. The message is this: if you report what happened to you, it might not be interpreted the way you think it will be. The year is 2016 and this year has revealed more horrifying truths than any about the growing "rape culture" in Western society. Documentaries like The Hunting Ground and Audrie & Daisy have shed light on the grave injustices experienced by young girls at American schools and universities. The Brock Turner case was one such painful instance, where the damages of the victim were completely overshadowed by the rapists "promising athletic career". When I read the reports on the Ched Evans case I was furious to note the ongoing abuse "X" suffers. She's had to relocate and change her identity in order to protect her life. I urge online trolls to cease their terrorisation of her and respect that she is still in pain and will be for the rest of her life. Regardless of the courts final ruling, her life has been completely destroyed. Why do we seek to constantly blame the victim in the case of rape? It is arguably one of the most unforgivable and life-destroying offences and yet we constantly seek ways to justify it. "What was she wearing?" "Did she flirt with him?" "How drunk was she?" Speaking out for the first time publicly, I can say that I know what you are going through "X". When I was 20 years old I was attacked. I'm almost 26 and the memory is no less painful than it was five years ago. I chose not to report my rape because I was drunk and I didn't scream. That was the advice given to me at the time of the attack. No one will believe you if you didn't put up a fight. When you're attacked, the first feeling is one of shock. You're body can't move, your mouth can't speak and you lie in fear and pray you don't die. It's unshakable feeling and it's left a scar on my heart to this day. Ched Evans, you are in a prime position of power. Millions of impressionable young men look to you as a role model; lead them wisely. Raise awareness among young men and advise them on the repercussions of their actions. Young women are constantly told to watch their drinks, don't get into a taxi alone and stay in control. Young men should be advised to not spike drinks, accompany a young woman respectfully and if she's not in control, do not take advantage of her. To all the survivors of rape and sexual violence, I'm listening to you and i care about you. Let's support each other and continue to fight this battle together.
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