Objectification and Sexual Assault
The historical roots of objectification and sexual assault in Western societies can be traced back to the era of European colonization, a period marked by profound power imbalances and cultural impositions. This blog post aims to explore how these deeply ingrained issues have evolved from the time of the European settlers to their persistent impact on contemporary society, highlighting the cultural, societal, and legal responses that have shaped and continue to influence the fight against these pervasive problems. The Legacy of European Settlers The colonization period initiated by European settlers in various parts of the world was characterized by a stark imposition of power and cultural norms over indigenous populations. This era was marked by a systematic devaluation of native cultures, often manifesting in the objectification of women and a normalization of sexual violence. Women, particularly those from indigenous communities, were frequently viewed as commodities or spoils of co...