I had the privilege of watching this film and attending a discussion with the survivor, Ms. Mpekatorou, alongside some of the film's crew. I wish I had the courage to raise my hand and say this during our discussion today.
This film perfectly depicts how entrenched and deep-rooted the sexualization of children is in Greek society. The very questions posed to the victims to defend themselves are the same questions from which abuse originates. Parents, caregivers, and top-tier executives are all responsible for crimes happening right in front of their eyes by resisting and denying the truth-children (and especially girls) are not viewed as children.
Ask yourself-when was the first time I felt like my humanity was exposed to the male gaze? Was it at church when I was asked to wear a skirt and be careful not to show my body? I was only 8. Was it when men catcalled me on the street? I was only 14. Was it when relationships between minors and adults were not only normalized but blamed on the victim and their poor mental or familial state? Was it when rape was discussed at the family table as an outcome of choices and not a crime? Was it when your high school friend dated a 36-year-old and it felt strange, but why talk about it? She is not a child anyway. Was it when you asked your father why he didn't protect you, and he said, "Well, what was I supposed to do?" As if rape and sexual abuse are not offenses, attacks and violations, but something almost natural -hard to go against. You're not a child anyway.
Watch this film. Look at yourself and your children. Look at your students. Apologize to your younger selves and to your kids for what you overlooked. Fight for their right to be human, to be children-carefree and alive, humans of equal rights who need protection and guidance.
Don't be afraid to call your self a feminist, a fighter for defending dehumanisation, in the face of a conservative and complicit society. No society is not hypocritical -society is a complicit.
Watch this film to save your life or someone else's.
