In a powerful statement made in the House of Commons, MP Josh Newbury opened up about his experience of being raped after a night out. Speaking during a debate on International Men’s Day, he expressed the importance of encouraging victims to report such crimes.
Josh Newbury’s Experience
Newbury, the MP for Cannock Chase, recounted a night approximately ten years ago when he went out with friends in an unfamiliar city. Despite his intention to pace himself, he blacked out during the night. The next morning, he woke up in a hotel room with another man and no memory of the previous evening.
The Aftermath
Newbury described the confusion and guilt he felt following the incident. A man he had shared the room with commented on their night, prompting Newbury to question whether he had consented. He stated, “How could I have ever consented?”
- Newbury received constant text messages from the man, asking about his well-being and making inappropriate comments.
- After grappling with his memories, Newbury realized he was a victim of rape.
Overcoming Shame
Reflecting on his story, Newbury emphasized that the fault lies with the perpetrators, not the victims. He advocated for a culture where men can openly discuss their experiences without shame or stigma.
His remarks received support from fellow MPs, who commended his courage in sharing such a personal narrative. Newbury also expressed his regret over not reporting the incident, fearing a lack of evidence would make prosecution unlikely.
Encouragement for Other Victims
Newbury concluded with a message of hope for victims. He urged them not to feel guilty or diminished but to seek justice despite the challenging journey it may entail. His call for accountability highlights a need for broader discussions on consent and support for victims in society.
Following his speech, the debate marked the 10th anniversary of International Men’s Day, reinforcing the significance of addressing men’s health and well-being. Newbury’s brave testimony serves as a reminder that victims should not carry the burden of shame for the crimes committed against them.
