We’ve Lost Our “Girl Cell”, But Is It Too Late To Regain It?

Author and playwright Eve Ensler recently stated that she believed all human beings are equipped with a “girl cell”. The cell, according to Ensler, is responsible for compassion, empathy, and vulnerability, all of which are required to sustain future generations. Over time, patriarchy has suppressed this gene by convincing the population that these characteristics are a sign of weakness, not of strength. While I believe Ensler was largely referring to the relationship between an abuser and the abused, her point also illustrates how such desensitization is shaping society’s views of victims today.

A couple of months ago, it became public that female ESPN broadcaster Erin Andrews was the target of a sexual predator. The man was stalking her when she traveled for assignments and even placed hidden video cameras in her hotel rooms. This man was a complete stranger, having only seen her on television, yet he successfully robbed her of her privacy. Erin was living every woman’s worst nightmare.

What shocked me the most about this story was the way in which the public reacted. While this hasn’t happened to all women, can’t we all relate in some way, shape, or form? The response of the public, specifically those made by fellow women, was deplorable. Instead of encouraging Erin or viewing her situation with compassion, people seemed to act as if she deserved the circumstances she found herself in. “She’s on TV- this kind of attention comes with the territory”. “Maybe if she didn’t dress like that, this wouldn’t have happened”. Why is it suddenly appropriate to categorize victims as “asking for it”?

Eve Ensler was right; our compassion and sense of camaraderie has been stripped from us. Victims of domestic violence need to be encouraged and empowered. They need to understand that they are worth fighting for. If they don’t receive this support from their sisters, where else are they supposed to get it? What kind of message does it send to the abusers; that violence against women is okay in certain circumstances? It is imperative for society to regain our “girl cell” and relearn the art of compassion. Only then will we be able to take a collective stand and show the world that violence, under any circumstances, should not and will not be tolerated.

You can see Eve Ensler talk about the girl cell on Ted.Com.