Stopfamilyviolence.org Calls on Abuse Prevention Community to Challenge Marriott Hotel Chain's Use of Victim Blaming

For more information or to take action visit www.stopfamilyviolence.org:

The Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa, sued by a woman raped in front of her children at gunpoint in its unmonitored parking garage, claimed she was careless, negligent and "failed to exercise due care for her own safety and the safety of her children and proper use of her senses and facilities." Now Marriott International has stated they will drop the "blame the victim" legal defense.  Let Marriott know their response is too little too late, and tell them how they can support the survivor and all women.

In a statement released to the press, StopFamilyViolence.org's  Executive Director Irene Weiser said, "The statements and actions by Marriott International were cruel and heartless and no doubt have added to the rape survivor's trauma.  What's more, Marriott's actions have sent a chill to women everywhere since fear of being blamed and ruthless legal tactics are key reasons that survivors don't report this all-too-common demeaning and brutal crime."