Acquaintance rape is something we don't talk about much. And it's something we don't hear about much.
But that's going to change, thanks to the folks at KSL-Ch. 5. They're launching a media campaign to raise awareness - and to hopefully prevent - acquaintance rape.That campaign kicks off tonight with the very good half-hour documentary "It's Called Rape" (6:30 p.m., Ch. 5). Produced under the auspices of KSL's Community Affairs department, the program revolves around the story of Bev, a victim of date rape who tells her story in a matter-of-fact but heart-rending fashion.
Bev tells viewers about how she went out with a guy she had become acquainted with. About how she had no idea that he was anything other than a good guy. About how, quite suddenly, he raped her.
She talks about the guilt that she felt. About how she blamed herself. About how she was reluctant to report the crime to the police.
We also see the other side of the story - an interview with a convicted sex offender referred to as "Joe." His face is obscured, but he tells a frightening tale about how he wasn't even aware that getting women drunk and having sex with them after they passed out is a crime.
Wrapped around Bev's and Joe's storied are interviews with various legal, medical and social experts. The documentary manages to avoid bogging down in talkiness, however, with pertinent sound bites that are skillfully woven together.
And "It's Called Rape," while advocating that victims report their crimes to police, doesn't pull any punches about how tough a road that can be to travel.
Best of all, the half hour includes tips on what to watch out for and how to possibly prevent acquaintance rape from taking place.
In addition to "It's Called Rape," KSL is launching a series of nicely produced, thought-provoking 30-second spots featuring various young, attractive people telling women they should be prepared for the worst, that it's OK to turn down a date if you feel uncomfortable. And telling men their behavior may be unacceptable.
Both the documentary and the ad spots include a toll-free number (1-888-421-1100) to call for information on rape and sexual assault.
It's a good-looking campaign, not to mention an important one.