Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Shutterstock/Evan El-Amin
Abuse

Trump declares April 'Sexual Assault Awareness' month

“Sexual assault crimes remain tragically common in our society,” said the US president.

US PRESIDENT DONALD Trump — who has himself been repeatedly accused of sexual misconduct — has declared April 2018 National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month amid a national debate over the issue.

“Sexual assault crimes remain tragically common in our society, and offenders too often evade accountability,” said a proclamation from Trump released by the White House.

“These heinous crimes are committed indiscriminately: in intimate relationships, in public spaces, and in the workplace.”

“Too often, however, the victims of assault remain silent. They may fear retribution from their offender, lack faith in the justice system, or have difficulty confronting the pain associated with the traumatic experience,” it continued.

“My administration is committed to raising awareness about sexual assault and to empowering victims to identify perpetrators so that they can be held accountable.”

At least 20 women have publicly accused Trump of engaging in sexual assault or harassment prior to becoming president. The White House has maintained that the women are lying.

Last month, Trump described allegations that he kissed a receptionist without her consent as “another false accusation” in a post on Twitter, calling instead for coverage of “the story of the women taking money to make up stories about me. One had her home mortgage paid off.”

Since former film mogul Harvey Weinstein’s dramatic downfall over allegations ranging from harassment to rape, the #MeToo campaign has seen a deluge of accusations topple men from powerful positions in a number of industries including Hollywood, the media and politics.

In February, allegations of domestic abuse led two Trump staffers to resign. The Republican leader came under fire for lamenting the “shattered” lives of those accused, saying the allegations could be false.

© AFP 2018

Read: Dublin City Council looking at plans to ban disposable coffee cups at its offices and parks>

Read: All northside Dart services suspended for today and tomorrow>

Your Voice
Readers Comments
75
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel