Triggers are those scents, images, statements, attitudes and/or feelings which evoke either positive or negative reactions from an individual. The trigger that instigated this editorial is the attitude of inequity that was exhibited by a current Senator of the 21st Legislature of the Virgin Islands during the legislative hearing on Bill 30-0060 and Bill 30-0109. It was during this hearing, that the Senator clearly stated her lack of support for a bill which would provide protection for spouses, men and women who are the victims of rape or domestic violence (Bill 30-0600) and a bill that would provide distinct definitions of sexual contact for clarity in sexual assault cases (Bill 30-0109).
It is with much hurt, anger and disbelief that I listened to a policy maker make uneducated, erroneous accusations towards women who are in domestic violence situations as well as towards those who are raped by their partners. As a survivor, I am hurt because the statements that were made, and the manner in which they were made (laughing to be specific), have the potential to negatively impact the emotional psyche of other victims who may have listened to the senator. Her statements have the ability to completely dissuade victims from identifying resources that can help them to heal and bring justice to their perpetrator. As a woman, I am angry that in the 21st century when men can be at the forefront of women’s rights and human rights altogether that still, there are women who refuse to support a mentality that promotes respect and negates violence. Lastly, as the Executive Director of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Council (DVSAC), I am in disbelief that a policy maker could lack such sensitivity.
The Women’s Coalition of St. Croix was particularly attacked and wrongfully defamed. As a partner of the organization, I wish to applaud the leaders, staff and advocates of the program for filling a gap in crisis interventions, shelter services and system advocacy on St. Croix. The on-going efforts of TWC and their partners to improve the quality of life for men, women and children in this community need not be overshadowed by the negativity of individuals who encourage violence and represent crudeness.
In closing, I understand that everyone is entitled to their own opinions and attitudes. However, as a leader in a community where domestic violence and sexual assault are on a rise, and as a woman who is not exempt from becoming a ‘1 in 6’ statistic, the time to face the harsh realities of these crimes is now. In the words of John F. Kennedy, It is my hope that the senator will recognize that ‘the rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.’
Editor’s note: Khnuma Simmonds-Esannason, the executive director of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Council, is a survivor of domestic violence.
As a former co-chairman of the DV-SAC, I strongly endorse the comments of Khnuma Simmonds-Esannason. Our community is beset by far too many incidents of domestic violence and it is only through the efforts of all of us that this trend can be reversed. Senator Hansen’s ignorant and biased remarks only serve to perpetuate the stereotypes that foster domestic violence and should be strongly censured by all. There is no excuse for domestic violence, period. That a sitting senator should make such foolish comments speaks volumes to why this problem is still endemic in the Territory. It is way past time that all of us stand up and be counted as opposed to domestic violence in any form,
Your comments are right on target!
Hopefully Sen.Hansen’s ignorant perspective will instead bring an overall deeper awareness to this deep seated issue.
Sadly…too many STILL think as she does…this is what Oprah would call a “teachable moment”.
There have been many times that I have “cringed” at both her comments and behavior on the Legislative floor. However, like it or not, she has been democratically elected by a large number.
It is my hope that something good-that being this kind of important and honest dialog-can be “brought to light”.
Bonny Corbeil, St.John.
As a former co-chairman of the DV-SAC, (and a rational human being), I strongly endorse your comments and just as strongly condemn Chucky Hansen for her ignorant, biased and discriminatory comments in the recent Seante hearings. She should be recalled or, at a minimum, censured by the Senate for her remarks.
Rape is rape, regardless of marital status. Sexual assault is a crime no matter if the perpetrator is your spouse. There is no excuse – period. Senator Sanes is to be commended for his bill to correct this outdated and backward language in the current VI rape statutes.
The Women’s Coalition is one of the most valuable and useful support organizations in the Territory and I have the highest regard for their works. In my career as a police officer here, I availed myself of their services many times on behalf of domestic violence victims, both male and female, and never did they let me or the victim down. The Women’s Coalition and DV-SAC are wonderful resources for enlightened police officers and real assets to our community. I encourage everyone to support their efforts.
Lt. Richard Waugh, VIPD (Ret’d)
St. Croix