We were disturbed and outraged by what was posted by Jared and Jacob regarding women. We will not be taking their money because it is not our place to forgive. Our VOICE is not in a position of absolving them for their misogyny as it perpetuates a culture of danger to all women and girls. Jared’s and Jacob’s actions not only objectified women but also perpetuated rape culture and violence against women.

While Jared and Jacob apologized, Jared’s apology infers that he believes his inability to date well contributed to his actions. How damaged must our society be that he can reason in this manner and it be thought as an apology. It is disturbing to think he can rationalize violence against all women because he struggled with insecurities around dating.

On a positive note, while Jared and Jacob’s actions were deplorable, they inadvertently created an opportunity for our community to come together and dialogue about rape culture. We look forward to Our VOICE being a part of that conversation.

While we will not be accepting Waking Life’s contribution, we will gladly accept support from concerned individuals and businesses to support Our VOICE’s sexual assault and prevention programs. They can donate online at ourvoicenc.org or contribute by mail at 44 Merrimon Avenue, Ste 1, Asheville, NC 28801.