As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to a close, many may remember last year’s viral question: “Would you rather be alone in the woods with a bear or a man?” For countless women and gender-diverse people, the answer remains instant – the bear.That’s not a joke; it’s a reflection of survival instincts sharpened by a culture that too often excuses male violence, protects predators and blames victims.The truth is the bear will follow its nature. It’s not trying to humiliate you, control you or convince you it loves you before hurting you. It won’t gaslight you into silence or tell the world you “wanted it.” But a man, especially in a society steeped in rape culture, might.Every day survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and coercive control navigate the fallout of trauma, stigma and disbelief. They’re told to stay quiet, to protect reputations, to move on. Yet, our headlines keep reminding us what survivors have always known: pow...