In a shocking turn of events, Canadian judge, Harold Finch, is facing scrutiny and potential removal from the bench after making appalling comments during a 2015 rape trial. The case involved a 19-year-old woman who reported being assaulted over a bathroom sink at a party. During the proceedings, Judge Finch made a series of deeply troubling statements, including the infamous line, “Why couldn’t you just keep your knees together?”
The anger and disbelief this evokes are palpable. To endure the trauma of sexual assault only to be blamed for it is not just wrong; it’s downright sickening. CNN anchor Jennifer Lee struggled to contain her outrage while reading Judge Finch’s remarks, highlighting the insensitivity of his comments.
The judge went further, suggesting that if the victim had simply “tilted her hips” or “sunk her bottom into the sink,” she might have avoided the assault. This misguided belief that victims can somehow prevent their own victimization is infuriating. Rape is an act of violence, and it’s committed by the perpetrator, not the victim. Judge Finch’s comments only serve to reinforce the stigma that prevents survivors from coming forward.
Additionally, he claimed that young women often seek sexual encounters, especially when intoxicated. This dangerous narrative perpetuates the myth that consent can be ambiguous based on a person’s state of inebriation. The truth is clear: no circumstance ever justifies rape. A victim’s actions, including drinking alcohol, do not negate the necessity of consent.
In a surprising outcome, the accused was acquitted, and Finch’s advice to him was equally troubling: “Tell your male friends to be more gentle and patient with women, to protect themselves.” It’s outrageous that the responsibility for the assault has shifted from the assailant to the victim and their peers.
While a new trial is set for November following an overturned verdict, the damage done by Finch’s comments cannot be undone. Reports indicate that he has undergone sexual violence education and has issued an apology, but many are still advocating for his removal from the judiciary. The judiciary committee is currently reviewing his case, and there’s hope for accountability.
As we continue to fight against rape culture, we must take action. Supporting organizations that advocate for survivors, such as RAINN and The National Women’s Law Center, is crucial. Additionally, we need to engage in conversations about consent with our children. The message is simple: consent must always be clear and unequivocal, and victims are never responsible for the actions of their attackers.
We can make a difference by educating ourselves and supporting resources like Progyny for those exploring pregnancy options, and checking out this helpful article for more on home insemination techniques. If you’re considering starting a family, Make a Mom offers invaluable insights into at-home insemination kits.
In summary, Judge Finch’s comments during the rape trial are a stark reminder of the pervasive issues surrounding victim-blaming in sexual assault cases. The fight against this narrative continues, as we advocate for justice and support survivors in their journeys toward healing.