Harlow’s Domestic Abuse Charity Slams Home Secretary James Cleverly for “Date Rape” Comment and Invites Him to Visit

In a shocking turn of events, the Home Secretary James Cleverly has come under fire from a Harlow-based domestic abuse charity, Safe Places, for his controversial comments regarding a “date rape” drug. The charity has issued a statement expressing their dismay and has extended an invitation for Mr. Cleverly to visit their safe accommodation and meet survivors to better understand the gravity of the issue.

The Controversial Remark

During a No 10 event before Christmas, Mr. Cleverly reportedly made a shocking comment to female guests, suggesting that putting “a little bit of Rohypnol in her (his wife’s) drink every night” was “not really illegal if it’s only a little bit,” as reported by the Sunday Mirror. The comment, perceived by many as insensitive and trivializing a serious issue, has sparked outrage, particularly considering Mr. Cleverly’s role as Home Secretary.

Safe Places’ Response

Safe Places, a domestic abuse charity based in Harlow, took to their social media channels to express their appall at the Home Secretary’s remarks. In a strongly-worded statement, the charity condemned the comment as a blatant disrespect for the seriousness of spiking and violence against women. They rejected the excuse that it was an “ironic joke” for private conversation, emphasizing that language has power and can perpetuate harmful beliefs.

A Call for Action and Empathy

The charity underscored the urgency of addressing violence against women and girls, stating that it is not a mere political soundbite but a non-negotiable necessity that demands action and empathy from policymakers. Safe Places argued that James Cleverly’s comment fell short of the mark and called on him to work towards regaining the trust he has lost.

An Invitation for Understanding

In a remarkable move, Safe Places extended an invitation to Mr. Cleverly to visit their safe accommodation and meet survivors of domestic abuse. The goal is to help him comprehend the profound damage inflicted on survivors and, in turn, raise awareness about the importance of refraining from making such jokes, whether in private or public.

Harlow MP’s Involvement

Harlow MP Robert Halfon, who has invited Mr. Cleverly to the town before, is expected to address the situation. The broader community, including political figures, seems poised to engage in a dialogue about the implications of the Home Secretary’s comments and the need for a more sensitive and responsible approach to issues of domestic abuse and violence against women.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding James Cleverly’s “date rape” comment has ignited a significant response from Safe Places, emphasizing the imperative for empathy and action in addressing violence against women. The invitation for Mr. Cleverly to visit the charity’s safe accommodation underscores the importance of firsthand understanding in dealing with such sensitive matters. The incident also prompts a broader conversation about the responsibility of public figures in promoting respectful discourse and combating gender-based violence.

FAQs

Q1: What did Home Secretary James Cleverly say regarding a “date rape” drug?

A1: According to reports, James Cleverly made a controversial comment at a No 10 event before Christmas, suggesting that putting “a little bit of Rohypnol in her (his wife’s) drink every night” was “not really illegal if it’s only a little bit.”

Q2: What is Safe Places?

A2: Safe Places is a domestic abuse charity based in Harlow that provides support and resources for individuals affected by domestic abuse.

Q3: What was Safe Places’ response to James Cleverly’s comments?

A3: Safe Places issued a statement expressing their appall at the Home Secretary’s remarks. They condemned the comment as disrespectful to the seriousness of spiking and violence against women, rejecting the excuse that it was an “ironic joke.”

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