Protest against New York cops’ rape acquittal grows

Summary of story from Change.org, May 27, 2011

If you’re a New York woman like the author of this article, you’ve probably already heard the horrifying news that two of “the city’s finest” (please excuse the dripping sarcasm) just got away with what looks a lot like rape (see WVoN stories here and here).

Despite overwhelming evidence, the jury let off the police officers on all charges except official misconduct — because after all, there’s no way to argue out of the fact that an on duty officer “cuddling” with a drunk stranger and covering up visits to her apartment with his department, is in any way within the bound of appropriate conduct.

The acquittal seemed to be related more to rape culture than the facts of the case: the prevalent myth that when a woman gets drunk and assaulted it’s in some way “her fault,” and she should be held responsible, not the perpetrator.

But New Yorkers intend to take a stand against this sickening display of rape culture.

A Facebook event launched yesterday, “PROTEST THE ACQUITTAL OF TWO NEW YORK CITY COPS FOR RAPE,” received replies from over 1000 people outraged by this decision and has already received local media coverage.

The main group behind the rally, Permanent Wave, has also launched a petition on Change.org.

It demands: comprehensive sexual assault training, a zero-tolerance policy for any sexual misconduct on the force, and transparency and accountability.

To support their efforts, please visit change.org and sign the petition.

The Women’s Media Center and a number of feminist blogs, including Feministing and Jezebel, are also actively promoting the protest.