Framed as (Un)Victims of Sexual Violence: An Intersectional Model

Abstract

This study presents an intersectional analysis of beliefs about and experiences of Black women regarding sexual violence, using focus group and survey methods with BIPOC college students ( N = 37). Based on the analysis, we propose a theoretical model of “(un)victimization” that integrates two inequality frames – misogynoir and legal cynicism – applied to sexual assault. Specifically, this model explains the experiences of Black women survivors of sexual violence who simultaneously experience sexual victimization, are denied legitimate victim status, and have reason to distrust legal forms of justice. We theorize the process of (un)victimization enables future sexual assault of Black women.