October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and many of you may remember this online viral question last year: “Would you rather be alone in the woods with a bear, or a man?” For many women and gender-diverse people, the answer is instant: the bear. That’s not a joke; it’s a reflection of survival instincts sharpened by a culture that too often excuses male violence, protects predators, and blames victims.

The truth is the bear will follow its nature. It’s not trying to humiliate you, control you, or convince you it loves you before hurting you. It won’t gaslight you into silence or tell the world you “wanted it.” But a man, especially in a society steeped in rape culture might.

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