GMHC Commends Attorney General Holder and Department of Justice for Expansion of the Definition of Rape

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Krishna Stone | 212.367.1016

New York, NY — Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) would like to commend Attorney General Eric Holder and the Department of Justice (DOJ) for the expansion of the definition of rape in the eyes of the law. The DOJ now describes rape as "penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim." This expansion of the legal definition of rape and better awareness of issues associated with it will lead to a more inclusive approach by the authorities. This update will benefit all individuals, including men, who have suffered sexual assaults.

The CDC released research describing the prevalence of male rape victimization in 2006. The report estimated that approximately three percent of American males had suffered rape during their lifetimes. Of those male victims, the researchers discovered that 71% were first raped before the age of eighteen. Additionally, a Human Rights Watch report stated that 22% of U.S. detainees have been forcibly raped while serving prison terms. Male victims have historically been ignored and have not received competent care.

Recent current events have returned the nation's attention to the long-term psychological damage rape can cause not only to women and girls, but also to men and boys. Mr. Holder stated: "These long overdue updates to the definition of rape will help ensure justice for those whose lives have been devastated by sexual violence and reflect the Department of Justice's commitment to standing with [all] rape victims." These updates will directly affect the penal code in New York State as well. Currently, First Degree Rape can only occur when a person has sexual intercourse or sodomizes another person (a) by force; (b) without consent by reason; or (c) the woman is less than 11 years old. The expansion will include non-penile penetration and/or unwanted oral penetration which can be as equally damaging to one's personal dignity and health status.

Furthermore, GMHC strongly recommends that the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services incorporate the DOJ's expanded definition with expediency. All sexual assault victims must receive the same amount of competent support and care from law enforcement agencies. A more comprehensive and standardized definition of rape will help provide support to the victims. The experienced trauma will no longer be considered a "lesser" in the eyes of the law based on the type of violation and their respective gender.

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About GMHC:  GMHC is a not-for-profit, volunteer-supported, and community-based organization committed to national leadership in the fight against AIDS. We provide prevention and care services to men, women, and families that are living with, or affected by, HIV/AIDS in New York City. We advocate for scientific, evidence-based public health solutions for hundreds of thousands worldwide.  Our mission:  GMHC fights to end the AIDS epidemic and uplift the lives of all affected.