Most times it is people you know that hurt you. This statement is true when you read about women who are being raped, molested or murdered. It is people they hang out with that usually hurt them.
Eurydice Dixon
Photo credit: Mamamia
Eurydice Dixon, 22, a young comedian was found killed two days ago in the middle of a favorite park in Carlton North, an inner suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The authorities charged Jaymes Todd, aged 19, with one count of rape and one count of murder.
Reports indicate that Eurydice didn't know her attacker. She was coming from work, staging a comedian gig. Her murder again brings to the fore the question of women safety.
When with acquaintances and ‘friends,' many times women ignore the old rules of safety: Dress “modestly;” don’t drink one bottle too many; safeguard your drinks; don’t walk with headphones; walk in a group; avoid going out after dark; send a text message to a friend when you arrive home safely; avert dark corned; watch your surroundings. The list goes on.
Many times women trust their so called friends who are most likely to abuse that trust. Some women feel that such advice on safety is cumbersome and unnecessary as most of it is common sense.
Women face a dilemma in many situations. They usually experience harassment in public spaces, as many reports from around the world confirm. When women follow the recommended safety tips, some brand them oversensitive and hysterical. At the same time, observing safety rules curtails their freedom—they cannot go out after dark and have to avoid certain places and dress. If they don't follow the rules and get into trouble, some believe they are to blame.
But one thing is sure. Women are not to blame when attacked, it the violent men who attack them that are to blame. Women are free to walk at night and do whatever they want, but that is not a wise thing to do. Some things are legitimate but not beneficial. It is the woman who faces the consequences, whether their attacker is caught and punished or not. Until the time when people learn to respect others, women should be cautious, even in the company of friends. Feeling safe is different from being safe.