Is a phrase I have come to really loathe. In my life I have heard this phrase used to excuse some of the worst behaviour toward women.
Many people think this phrase is a compliment to strong women, but it isn’t.
This phrase shows the thinking that because a women is good at defending herself or her children against an abuser it makes the abuse ok, or that she doesn’t need help & will be ok.
“She was attacked, but fought back.”
“He started the argument, but it’s ok, she gave as good as she got.”
These are just a few of the words I’ve heard.
Just because a woman is good at defending herself does not mean that abuse isn’t happening, in fact it is an indication that abuse was, or is happening.
Yes, she might be a strong woman.
Yes, she might have her own issues.
No, that does not mean she deserves to be abused or controlled.
Why am I so passionate about this?
I am a strong woman.
I can give as good as I get.
But why should I be treated in a way that leaves me needing to defend myself?
