Originally Posted by Asher Bertrand

I admit to being really torn on the custom of not uttering the victim's name. First, I *strongly* believe no victim should be "outed" against their will.

On the other hand, though, I wonder if shielding the name doesn't ultimately do more harm than good. In not naming, I wonder if we're setting apart victims of this crime as different than victims of other crimes. I'm not certain what the message is here. We name murder victims, even. If we don't treat the victims of rape the same, is the underlying message that this, indeed, IS something to be ashamed of?

But it's complex. What might be an overall good could be hugely damaging to the individual. I guess that's why I really admire the victims who do speak out, let their face be seen and their names heard. It must take a hell of a lot of strength to do that, but what hell of a statement, too.