relationships
Trace the link between feminism and relationships from outdated norms to modern conventions including chivalry, working mothers, splitting the bill and beyond.
The Loved Less Swine
Hi, my name is Debbie, and in 2005 I was sexually assaulted by my ex boyfriend. I never reported it, because I guess in many ways I thought I deserved it, especially for how I treated him in the beginning of our relationship, which was horrible. I was head over heels for him, but by the time I realized it, he was gone and I’d pay for that for years to come.
By Debbie Gabriel8 years ago in Viva
Let's Talk About Consent
This piece is my view on #consent. It is the first of a series of essays breaking down the poem "My Truth" to address in depth the social problems I refer to in that poem. If you haven't read it yet, please do. It'll give you context for this piece. Thanks :)
By Lena Marques8 years ago in Viva
Was I Raped?
It was past my little brother's curfew. The street lights had been on for almost an hour; he knew to be home before they turned on. I was in charge. I was supposed to make sure that he was okay. I had called my parents—my stepfather, too. I was frantic. My stepfather had made it home first, then both of my biological parents. We organized a search throughout the neighborhood and any of his friends' houses that were close by. Being that I was seventeen and had my own vehicle, I desperately wanted to search with them. Instead, they told me to stay in case he arrived home. I was to call one of them immediately if he did.
By Opal O'Malley8 years ago in Viva
Defining Solidarity
For years I have wanted to start the conversation about how women can be more supportive of each other. I have wanted to build communication among sisters. How often have women been able to get to a point in life that they can sit back and reflect, and say, "Because of (this woman), I have gotten to this point of my career."
By Regina Stone-Grover8 years ago in Viva
Grateful for the Pain
Sometimes being protected is the very thing that gets us hurt. I grew up in a rather strict and devoutly religious home. We still acted like normal people, watching movies and spraying whipped cream into our mouths, but a few key things were different. I didn't have a curfew because I had to have permission to leave the house in the first place, and breaking a rule felt like breaking a law. My parents gave me or my two older sisters "the talk," because they thought that something that wouldn't happen had no reason to be talked about. All you needed to know was "no," and the rest would come at marriage.
By Mikaela Merritt8 years ago in Viva
Sticks and Stones
I’ll never forget the look on his face. The noise I made when I felt his hands on my shoulders and my feet give out from under me. The rug burn I got as I tried to pull myself away from him, but the pressure of his body on top of mine was too much. I was terrified. How did it get this bad? How did I possibly let myself into a situation like this? I’m a smart girl… Dammit, I know how I let this happen.
By Morgan Peña8 years ago in Viva
