Most of us are familiar with this iconic WWII image of the sailor kissing the nurse. Unfortunately, it wasn't quite what it seemed. This article, “The Selective Blindness of Rape Culture,” provides context behind what really happened.
"... George and Greta were perfect strangers. We learn that George was drunk, and that Greta had no idea of his presence, until she was in his arms, with his lips on hers. ... 'It wasn’t my choice to be kissed. The guy just came over and grabbed! ... I did not see him approaching, and before I knew it, I was in this vice grip. ... You don’t forget this guy grabbing you. ... That man was very strong. I wasn’t kissing him. He was kissing me.' ...
"It seems pretty clear, then, that what George had committed was sexual assault. ... [Accounts of the event] continue to talk about the picture in a whimsical, reverent manner, 'still mesmerized by his timeless kiss.' George’s actions are romanticized and glorified; it is almost as if Greta had never spoken."
Not as romantic anymore, is it?
