…By Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
Former Inbetweeners actress Emily Atack recently shared a selfie on social media, showcasing her new hairstyle.
She playfully captioned the post, leading to a cruel comment from a social media user who accused her of inviting suggestive responses.
In response, Atack expressed her frustration, highlighting that regardless of the caption, inappropriate comments would still occur.
Cruel Comment and Atack’s Reaction:
A social media user targeted Atack in the comments, implying that she was inviting negative attention with her playful caption.
The comment suggested that she should expect such treatment.
An angered Atack promptly responded, emphasizing that the fault lies with those who make inappropriate comments and not with her or her choices.
She called attention to the fact that changing herself to avoid abuse would not address the underlying issue.
Challenging Victim-Blaming:
Atack passionately addressed the social media user, pointing out the unfairness of shifting blame onto her.
She criticized the notion that she should change her speech, humor, appearance, and personality to appease abusers while they face no consequences for their actions.
Atack highlighted that comments like the one made are a significant part of the problem surrounding online harassment.
Frustration and Lack of Understanding:
Still upset by the exchange, Atack took to her Instagram Story to express her frustration with the social media user’s lack of comprehension.
Sharing a screenshot of the comment, she questioned the intelligence level of those who fail to understand the issue at hand.
This reaction reflects her disappointment in the persistent lack of empathy and understanding among some individuals.
Context and Previous Advocacy:
The recent comment directed at Atack follows her well-received BBC documentary, “Emily Atack: Asking For It?,” which delved into the topic of digital sexual harassment and abuse.
In the documentary, she shared her personal experiences of online harassment, including receiving rape threats, and explored the normalization of such behavior.
Atack interviewed experts in sexual violence and abuse counseling, online safety, and law enforcement to shed light on the issue and discuss potential solutions.
Continued Advocacy and Addressing Cyberflashing:
Atack has been actively involved in advocating against cyberflashing, an act involving unsolicited explicit images sent online.
She previously spoke about the problem in Parliament and has been vocal about the need for stronger measures to combat online harassment.
Notably, the UK Government introduced cyberflashing as a criminal offense, carrying a penalty of up to two years in prison, as a result of these efforts.
Conclusion:
Emily Atack’s response to a cruel social media comment highlights the ongoing issue of victim-blaming and the persistence of online harassment.
Her reaction serves as a reminder that the responsibility lies with abusers, not with the victims.
Atack’s advocacy work in raising awareness about digital sexual harassment and abuse further demonstrates her commitment to addressing these important societal issues.