In response to Ashley Herzog's column on May 3, Women can ensure own safety with guns
I would like to say that this action doesn't solve any safety issues.
The Take Back the Night march is not about overcoming the fear of being raped by a stranger in a dark alley, which by the way is only about 3 percent of all reported sexual assaults. It is about empowering women to stand up for our rights in society. How does carrying a gun in a purse, which by the way has become more like luggage than a purse, protect a woman being raped and abused by her husband or boyfriend? Or protect the young girl who is sexually abused by her father or uncle?
The moment women start carrying guns for defense is the moment that living in fear controls our lives. Being aware that this type of situation can occur shows that we should know self-defense techniques and prevention methods to lower our chance of this happening. There is a difference between living in fear with a gun and living with the consciousness to be prepared for the worst.
Ohio University offers many self-defense programs, especially in the residence halls, throughout the year. There are also several other resources about self-defense and prevention found right here on campus. A woman can protect herself against a man who is twice her size without a handgun.
Never underestimate the power of a woman. We are stronger than what society and in some cases even ourselves give us credit for. So take back the night, women; it is our right and our duty.' Ann Cugliari is a graduate student in education. 17
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