The Pretenders lead singer Chrissie Hynde is being criticized after making controversial comments regarding her own sexual assault, according to People.
Katherine Hull Fillet, VP of Communications for RAINN, released a statement in response to Hynde’s comment that “you have to take responsibility,” according to Billboard.
“A victim is never to blame,” said Fillet in the statement.
“One of the most frequently discussed subjects we hear from survivors on the National Sexual Assault Hotline is a sense that they are to blame for what occurred. This feeling of self-blame, described by Chrissie Hynde, can often prevent survivors from coming forward and getting the support that they deserve.”
“It's critical for everyone to understand that regardless of the circumstances surrounding a sexual assault, a victim is never to blame. The responsibility always lies solely with the perpetrator, no matter what."
The 63-year-old Pretenders leader reportedly took blame for an incident that occurred when she was 21. The member of an Ohio biker gang reportedly said he would take her to a party but instead brought to her an empty house and forced her to perform sexual acts under the threat of violence.
“Technically speaking, however you want to look at it, this was all my doing, and I take full responsibility,” Hynde said during her interview with Sunday Times magazine.
“If I'm walking around, and I'm very modestly dressed and I'm keeping to myself, and someone attacks me, then I'd say that's his fault. But if I'm being very lairy and putting it about and being provocative, then you are enticing someone who's already unhinged -- don't do that. Come on! That's just common sense."
“You know, if you don't want to entice a rapist, don't wear high heels so you can't run from him. If you're wearing something that says 'Come and f--- me,' you'd better be good on your feet. ... I don't think I'm saying anything controversial, am I?"
Lucy Hastings, head of the charity, Victim Support, has also openly criticized Hynde’s recent comments.
“It is critical that nothing deters victims of sexual violence from coming forward to the police or to independent organizations so they can get the help and support they need," Hastings said.
"Victims of sexual violence should never feel or be made to feel that they were responsible for the appalling crime they suffered, regardless of circumstances or factors which may have made them particularly vulnerable.”
