Essays: the Collection

                                             Brock Turner and Lena Dunham                  W hen Stanford University Swimmer Brock Allen Turner’s sentence for rape became known, the outrage and disbelief caused an instant outpouring of anger, both off and online.  One reaction in particular that stood out was a powerful statement from the victim herself.  She addressed it to the accused.  It was articulate, horrifying and ultimately tragic. Brock and Dunham, art by Kurt von Behrmann 2016                 Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Aaron Persky’s verdict was a visible reminder that race, class and privilege still determine outcomes that are favorable to those who enjoy them.  Prosecutors asked for a six-year sentence.  The actual sentence was slighter.                 "A prison sentence would have a severe impact on him," Persky said. "I think he will not be a danger to others."  The rationale provided  was that Turner did not have