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Open space: Male victims of abuse and dating violence speak up
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Inroads: An activist arranges pairs of women’s shoes on Nov. 25, 2020 during the “Shoes in Silence” rally at the Senayan legislative complex in Jakarta. The event was held to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and to urge the passing of the sexual violence bill. Finally passed on April 22, 2022, the bill provides a legal framework that protects both female and male victims alike. (JP/Dhoni Setiawan) (JP/Dhoni Setiawan)
O
pening conversations about the experiences of male victims of sexual violence and abuse are necessary to raise public awareness and challenge the ingrained stigma in a patriarchal culture.
Note: The following story contains events and accounts that may be harmful or traumatizing for some readers.
The House of Representatives passed a landmark bill on sexual violence into law a little over a month ago on April 12, 2022 after a decade of delays, discussions and deliberations, primarily due to opposition from the more conservative, Islamic elements in the legislature.
While the new law recognizes male victims of sexual violence, it will take more than the legislation and implementing regulations for this to trickle down into the public consciousness in a country as diverse as Indonesia, where the society is generally ruled by a patriarchal mindset.
Read also Ending Sexual Violence
“She chased me around with a hammer and threatened to beat me to a pulp. Do you think that counts as abuse?” said Henry, who asked to be referred only by his first name.
After a pause, he chuckles. After enduring three years of threats, emotional manipulation and physical abuse from his former girlfriend, the 28-year-old audio producer feels he’s earned a smile or two. He is now trying to live his life to the fullest.
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