Teen rape victim gets 30 years behind bars after stillbirth
A rape victim is getting the raw end of the deal by being punished for a crime committed against her.
It is incredibly sad that even in the 21st century we are living under patriarchal social systems. This follows a story about a woman from El Salvador in Central America which, when you read it, will make your hairs stand on end.
No woman should ever have to be abused in any form. According to W24, a 19-year-old girl, identified as Evelyn Beatriz Hernanedz Cruz, was a victim of sexual assault. Evelyn had been sexually victimised repeatedly by a gang member and this cruel act resulted in her falling pregnant. However, due to complications during her pregnancy, sadly it was a stillbirth.
Read: India court allows abortion for rape victim, 10
Evelyn is not only a victim of rape but she is also a victim of circumstance. This young girl was not aware that she had been impregnated by her abuser. As a result of this, she ended up having to give birth on the floor of her high school bathroom.
Her baby was stillborn and as a result of something that she had no control over, Evelyn was sentenced to 30 years in prison.
Read: Mom shares gang-raped daughter's suicide note
This harsh sentencing is a direct result of the fact that abortion is illegal in El Salvador, no matter the circumstance. In the country, even a miscarriage lands you in jail.
What are your thoughts on the sentence that was handed to Evelyn?