I know exactly what Serena was trying to say, but it was the way she worded it, that made the comments unacceptable. Women do need to be careful, especially young women when it comes to drinking and drugs. When you aren’t in your right mind, your judgment isn’t the best. It hurts your credibility when these type of accusations are made.
As far as men, regardless of any bad judgments or impairments a woman has, if you see she is drunk or sedated just walk away. There is no justification for rape. The men who do this knowingly should be thrown under the jail. If you aren’t sure she is giving consent, don’t take any chances.
These are simple rules for both men and women. I believe that is what Serena was trying to get across, but didn’t do it in the proper way and that is why she is issuing an apology.
“What happened in Steubenville was a real shock for me. I was deeply saddened. For someone to be raped, and at only sixteen, is such a horrible tragedy! For both families involved – that of the rape victim and of the accused. I am currently reaching out to the girl’s family to let her know that I am deeply sorry for what was written in the Rolling Stone article. What was written – what I supposedly said – is insensitive and hurtful, and I by no means would say or insinuate that she was at all to blame.
I have fought all of my career for women’s equality, women’s equal rights, respect in their fields – anything I could do to support women I have done. My prayers and support always goes out to the rape victim. In this case, most especially, to an innocent sixteen year old child.”