Lessons on rape culture from my experience abroad

Trigger Warning: Discussion of Rape

As an American export studying abroad in Scotland, it’s needless to say that I’ve noticed plenty of cultural differences between here and the U.S. since arriving four years ago. From greasy pub fare, to heavy brogue accents, Scotland offers up many new experiences for someone who grew up on the East Coast of the States. But there’s one difference that has become incredibly pronounced over the past few weeks: the difference in how Scottish universities deal with rape culture compared to American colleges.

Just this past week, my school’s student newspaper leaked minutes from the lone fraternity on campus. In the official minutes, the editors found disgusting rape jokes – those even suggesting the frat go on a “raping holiday” with the Feminist Society of the University. The information was threatening, and quite frankly, alarming. However, within a day of the information being leaked, the University officials had already begun investigation of the circumstances, ready to bring the individuals to full responsibility.

Compare that to the officials at American colleges – known for belittling and even covering up instances of rape culture, sexual assault and rape. More than fifty institutions are being federally investigated under Title IX for consecutive failures to appropriately deal with sexual violence on campus. Rolling Stone just recently wrote a scathing article about the University of Virginia, showing how the college has done a poor job handling instances of rape and sexual assault, all in the attempt to maintain their reputation. This has got to stop. Universities in the United States should take a lesson from Scotland and ensure they properly pursue and investigate on behalf of the victims. By not doing so, American colleges perpetuate rape culture and fail to provide a safe and trusting space for their students.