Before a true answer to the question can be made, one must analyze every aspect of the situation in order to make not only an informed decision, but also to gain perspective on the situation to it's entirety. Before the video's release, Ray Rice received a two game suspension from the Baltimore Ravens when the news of the incident surfaced to the media. The punishment was literally a slap on both of his wrists, until the video was released of the brutal attack, in which he was suspended indefinitely.
In the beginning of the video, we see the couple on a platform outside of the elevator and Janay strikes Ray. Then when the couple proceeds to get on the elevator, we see hims deliver a blow to her head, which knocks her seemingly unconscious. Although she hit him first, it is never acceptable for a man to hit a woman under any circumstances, especially unconsciously. Then as the video progresses Ray is seen not only punching her, but also dragging her on and off the elevator and standing seemingly without a bother in the world. After the National Football League reviewed the video, they issued Ray Rice a two game suspension for his behavior. The light punishment was was not only upsetting but astonishing. It spoke volumes about the value of women to the National Football League.
Women are not only 45% of the NFL's fan base, but they also play roles as being wives, girlfriends, therapists, secretaries and etcetera to men involved in the league, on and off the field. The value of a woman's life is seen secondary to profits and wins. The horrifying situation meant nothing until there was an outrageous public outcry for change . But Janay Rice continues to stand by her husband, through thick and thin. It is about time for a domestic violence campaign to be launched, which will save many lives. It is a shame that something horrific has to happen for awareness to the world's shadowed evils to be revealed.
Although Ray Rice has been exiled from the NFL, is it really our business to tell them how to someone how to live their lives? As a woman, what do you think of her decision? Is Janay Rice really a victim or is she being victimized by society?
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233
(Photo: Instagram)
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