Scarlett Field-Green
Founder of RB productionsThis opinion piece details how “Prima Facie” exposes the harsh realities of defending sexual assault cases while navigating pervasive rape myths. Through Rosie Cowan’s research and judicial reform initiatives, the play ignites a call to action against outdated attitudes, shedding light on the urgent need for societal change.
Theatrical Realism:
Prima Facie or ‘at first sight’, is an award-winning West End play, not about instantaneous love but unfortunately, something far more relatable.
Prima Facie by Suzie Miller starring Jodie Comer, made its debut at the Stables Theatre in Sydney in 2019, before transferring to the Harold Pinter Theatre in London. The one-woman production reveals the complicated life of a barrister who guiltlessly defends people accused of sexual assault, using her tenacious drive and linguistic ability to bend the judge’s ear and often win her case. The play then turns when Comer’s character is sexually assaulted by a colleague and despite a trial, he gets off scott free. An unfortunate reality for the majority of rape and sexual assault cases in this country.
However, perhaps a new initiative in Northern Ireland will ensure justice is served. Rosie Cowan, a lecturer at Queens University Belfast, has been conducting research into the impact of rape myths. She writes that “rape myths are false beliefs and stereotypes about rape, like what a victim wears or how much she drinks or indeed as happens in the play, her previous sexual history.” Cowan’s research, as well as the profound impact of the play have lead Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan to announce that judges need further training which will include, “newly available research or any other available material capable of improving the learning outcomes of the judicial participants.”
Rape Myths Unveiled:
Rape Myths and outdated attitudes such as ‘promiscuous underwear is an invitation for sex’, is not the only reason that so many sexual assault cases do not end in convictions or indeed why many do not make it to trial.
Prima Facie touches on the fact that court delays seriously impact the victims of these crimes. Recent figures uncovered by BBC News NI show that it takes 757 days on average for a sex crime to be dealt with in Northern Ireland considerably longer than most of other crimes. An investigation by UN Women UK found that 97% of women aged 18-24 have been sexually harassed, with a further 96% not reporting those situations because of the belief that it would not change anything.
Final Thought: A Call to Action:
In the wake of “Prima Facie” and the enlightening research of Rosie Cowan, it is imperative to recognise that the battle against sexual assault and rape myths extends far beyond the confines of the courtroom. The staggering statistics of court delays and underreported incidents of sexual harassment demand a collective response.
As individuals and as a society, we must actively challenge ingrained beliefs and behaviors that perpetuate victim-blaming and impunity. Empowering survivors to come forward, providing comprehensive support systems, and holding perpetrators accountable are crucial steps towards fostering a culture of empathy and justice.
Moreover, sustained efforts in education and advocacy are essential to dismantle the pervasive myths that continue to shroud sexual violence. By amplifying the voices of survivors, advocating for systemic reforms, and fostering a climate of accountability, we can strive towards a future where justice is not just a legal concept but a lived reality for all.
This issue is widespread and if Olivier award winning fiction can help bring justice, then it is duly welcomed and greatly appreciated.
To read more about Chamber’s insights on arts, culture and justice please click here.