Charlotte House enlists men in fight against violence

According to the latest research and studies 90-94 percent of men don't rape and never will. These are the men who can make a difference to end rape and prevent men who do commit sexual assault or abuse from hurting women.

For a lot of men, it is difficult to come to terms with the fact that the vast majority of rape, about 98-99 percent is committed by men and that the overwhelming majority of victims are women and teen girls.

The Charlotte House has released a list of things men can do on an every day basis to prevent men's violence against women.

• Approach gender violence as a men's issue involving men of all ages and socioeconomic, racial and ethnic background. Start talking about the problem with friends and relatives.

• Take the issue seriously and with concern.

• Interrupt comments, jokes and language that are sexually degrading or minimize rape.

• Choose not to use degrading language when referring to women.

• Do not talk about sexual encounters in a way that objectifies or dehumanizes women and their bodies.

• Develop your own style of talking to men and challenging common sexist remarks you hear.

• Choose not to support media that degrade women and sell men short.

• Demonstrate healthy and respectful attitudes about women to younger boys and to other men.

• Listen to women's voices and needs; find out where they are coming from.

• Educate yourself on how media, including pornography, affects boys' and mens' perception of women.

• Take "no" as a "no" and not a "try harder."

Contact The Charlotte House with any questions about this topic or any of the articles that have been published this month in The Eagle drawing attention to Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Advocates are available 24/7 by calling 795-6401, 795-6400 or toll free 866-795-9381.