A new mural has appeared next to the Bernard Shaw in Dublin in support of the teenage victim whose underwear was discussed in a Cork rape trial.
A 27-year-old man was found not guilty of rape, though the case has sparked huge backlash around the world.
The jury was asked to consider the girl’s “thong with a lace front”, suggesting it meant she “was attracted to the defendant and was open to meeting someone and being with someone”.
The mural on Richmond Street South was created by street artist and graphic designer Emma Blake, also known as Estr.
Using what underwear someone is wearing as evidence that they consented to sex is THE most ridiculous thing I have EVER heard. A woman’s underwear should never be allowed to be used as “evidence”, because it is evidence of nothing. #notaskingforit #ThisIsNotConsent pic.twitter.com/CuaJds6VAZ
— Emma Blake (@emmaleneblake) November 16, 2018
It depicts several different types of underwear along with the statement, “Not asking for it.”
The mural’s appearance also follows the #ThisIsNotConsent solidarity rallies held in Dublin and around the country earlier this week.
Women’s rights group ROSA organised rallies following the verdict, saying that the consideration of the girl’s underwear was a “disgrace”.
“These lines of character accusation and victim blaming are unfortunately a common tactic used in cases before the courts relating to sexual violence,” they wrote.
“The judiciary has proven itself time and time again to be utterly damaging to survivors of sexual violence to seek justice.”
Main image via @emmaleneblake
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