We’re Using All the Wrong Words to Describe Jeffrey Epstein’s Victims

Why do media outlets continue to use language that frames some of Epstein’s actions as consensual sex?

A protest group called “Hot Mess” hold up signs of Jeffrey Epstein in front of the Federal courthouse on July 8, 2019 in New York City. Photo: Stephanie Keith/Getty Images

We still don’t have the language to talk about sexual violence — and nothing exemplifies this reality better than the case against Jeffrey Epstein.