On Threads, there is a movement, “I am Jane Doe”, standing up for the woman who just spoke up about being gang-raped by seven Cornell University fraternity brothers. Women like me who have survived sexual assault and rape are proclaiming ourselves as Jane Doe.
This is to protect her true name after those with zero integrity have attempted to identify her. Not only does it protect her details, but it also provides solidarity among those who have survived such trauma.
But after witnessing time and time again how the patriarchy has failed women, I’m growing infuriated. I no longer want to stay silent. In about two weeks, I’ll be featured in an anthology called Rage, Well Spoken.
I’ve written poems about my rapes and about very public sexual assault cases such as Chanel Miller and Brock Turner. I plan on writing more about the Cornell 7.
I don’t plan on staying silent anymore. I don’t just stand with Jane Doe; I am Jane Doe.
I’m a survivor. I’m much more than the things I have lived through. But I plan on using my voice. I will be heard. I will be heard for all those who cannot speak and for all the times I could not use my voice.
That being said, please consider checking out Rage, Well Spoken.
Isabelle Palerma
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