I am appalled by the column "Girls, put on some clothes; this isn't America's Next Top Hoochie" (SN 9/28).

The State News should be ashamed of the message it is sending into our community. It is time the paper educates itself and its writers about rape culture and sexual violence. The impact this newspaper has on campus as MSU's student voice carries great responsibility and it's time for you to step up to the plate.

When the paper prints comments that tell women on this campus that the clothing they wear is the cause of their rape, you are perpetuating the myth that women are asking to get raped and telling their perpetrators that their violence is acceptable and justified.

This is my call to the paper to educate itself on what the rape culture is and learn to write in a way that will not perpetuate its existence. Let your readers know that they are not to blame if they are assaulted. It's time you changed your approach on reporting and discussing assault on this campus.

If you'd like more information, MSU's Sexual Assault Crisis and Safety Education Program has information regarding this issue and the staff and volunteers would be more than happy to assist you in your education.

The hotline can be reached anytime at (517)372-6666.

Kristen Karnosky
English junior