CONTENT WARNING: This story discusses sexual assault.
The focus of the #MeToo movement has rightly been the brave women who have spoken out against sexual abuse and misconduct by a variety of high-profile figures in the entertainment industry.
But, it is worth remembering that men have also been victims in these cases, with the allegations against Kevin Spacey and Bryan Singer, and the bravery of people like Anthony Rapp to speak out, proving as much.
Point being: when it comes to sexual assault, rape, and harassment, it does all of us no good to simply focus on one gender.
It’s something that talk show host and comedian Samantha Bee admits to having a blind spot over, saying that she’s often focused a little too heavily on the “lady stuff”, while unironically displaying the hashtag #MenToo.
So, with the help of Brooklyn 99 star, sexual assault survivor, and very awesome dude Terry Crews, Bee made a PSA against the edgy “jokes” that trivialised and diminish the experience of men and boys.
And as a clips package featuring everyone from Fox News to Spongebob Squarepants showed, the very-tired “dropped the soap” gag is still, unfortunately, alive an well in mainstream media.
Crews and Bee highlight all the jokes you can make instead of male rape jokes, including spit-takes, pies in the face, and puns around Samantha Bee’s last name.
Lastly, as the PSA says, if you’re the type of guy who makes “edgy” jokes about prison rape, or how boys who get raped by older women “like it”, maybe don’t?
If this story raises any issues for you, or you just need to talk to someone, you can call the national sexual assault, domestic and family violence helpline on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), Mensline on 1800 600 636, or Lifeline on 13 11 14. They’re all free and confidential, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.