The State News article "Girls, put on some clothes; this isn't America's Next Top Hoochie" (SN 9/28) shows a lack of respect for women and a perpetuation of myths about sexual assault.

The author wrote, "There were 13 reported rapes at MSU last school year. You would think that would make girls a little more aware of their surroundings and cautious of what they wear."

Rape is not about sex; rape is about power. Women do not ask for rape, nor do they invite it by any decisions that they make. This article blames women who have been raped. It is not the fault of any person who has been sexually assaulted. The only person at fault is the rapist.

The column demonstrates a lack of attention to the real problem: Why do men sexually assault women? This is a much bigger issue which should be addressed in The State News. In our society, why are men apparently given the right to force themselves on women?

We should stop searching for flaws in the women who are being victimized - they are no different from you or me. What we need to focus on is challenging the cultural norms that give one social group power over another.

Leah Tibbetts
social work and psychology junior