Is there equity in the treatment of incarcerated sexual assault victims? Reflect on equity after reading the following article:
Fedock, G., Cummings, C., Kubiak, S., Bybee, D., Campbell, R., & Darcy, K. (2021). Incarcerated women’s experiences of staff-perpetrated rape: Racial disparities and justice gaps in institutional responses. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 0886260519850531. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0886260519850531
Is There Equity in the Treatment of Incarcerated Sexual Assault Victims?
The question of equity in the treatment of incarcerated sexual assault victims remains a critical concern, particularly in light of racial disparities and justice gaps in institutional responses. The article by Fedock et al. (2021) sheds light on the experiences of incarcerated women who have suffered sexual violence perpetrated by prison staff, revealing significant inequities in how these cases are addressed. By analyzing the findings of the study, this essay will reflect on whether incarcerated sexual assault victims receive equitable treatment and justice, emphasizing the role of institutional policies, racial disparities, and systemic barriers to justice.
Racial Disparities in Institutional Responses
Fedock et al. (2021) highlight how race plays a crucial role in the experiences of incarcerated women who report staff-perpetrated rape. The study reveals that Black women face greater skepticism and harsher treatment when reporting sexual violence compared to their White counterparts. Institutional bias and racial discrimination contribute to a system where Black women are less likely to be believed and more likely to face retaliation for speaking out. This disparity underscores a significant lack of equity in how sexual assault cases are handled within the prison system.
Barriers to Justice and Reporting
One of the major findings of the study is the pervasive fear of retaliation that prevents incarcerated women from reporting sexual assault. Victims often face threats from staff or experience punitive measures such as solitary confinement, transfer to another facility, or loss of privileges. These institutional barriers create an environment where justice is inaccessible, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups who already encounter systemic discrimination. The lack of independent oversight and accountability mechanisms further exacerbates the issue, allowing perpetrators to act with impunity.
Institutional Policies and Their Impact
The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was established to prevent sexual violence in correctional facilities, but the enforcement of its policies remains inconsistent. Fedock et al. (2021) demonstrate that despite formal protections, incarcerated women—especially those from marginalized racial backgrounds—continue to experience inequitable treatment when reporting sexual assault. The lack of comprehensive trauma-informed care and support services further alienates victims, making it difficult for them to heal or seek justice.
The Intersection of Gender, Race, and Power
The issue of equity in the treatment of incarcerated sexual assault victims cannot be separated from the broader intersection of gender, race, and power dynamics within the prison system. Women in prison, particularly women of color, are at an increased risk of sexual violence due to the power imbalance between staff and inmates. Institutional structures reinforce these disparities, making it difficult for victims to seek justice or receive appropriate medical and psychological support.
Conclusion
The findings of Fedock et al. (2021) make it clear that equity in the treatment of incarcerated sexual assault victims remains elusive. Racial disparities, fear of retaliation, and institutional failures create an environment where justice is not equally accessible to all victims. Addressing these inequities requires systemic reforms, including stronger enforcement of protective policies, independent oversight, and culturally competent support services for survivors. Without these changes, the cycle of abuse and injustice will continue, disproportionately harming marginalized women in the prison system. Equity in the treatment of incarcerated sexual assault victims is not just a matter of policy but a fundamental human rights issue that demands urgent attention.