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Last week, WW told the story of Kim Bradley, who for decades endured domestic abuse even as she and her husband, John, traveled in the highest circles of Portland society ("For 30 Years, Kim Bradley Hid from Her Husband," WW, Nov. 15, 2017). Our reporting also examined why victims find it hard to leave abusive relationships, and where Oregon's laws fail survivors. Here's what readers had to say about the story.
Melody Ghormley, via Facebook: "Domestic abuse by rich, influential, 'important' men is not rare. This is an important article by Willamette Week. I wonder if the Big O would have published it."
Bethany Rydmark, via Twitter: "Lunchtime reading. I wonder about this all the time, working in circles of wealthy people with outwardly 'perfect' lives. Brokenness knows no class boundaries."
Rudi Van Desarzio, via wweek.com: "Nearly 1 in 3 Oregon women are victims of domestic violence, says this story. What's the rate for men? Because if national rates hold true here, that number is identical or higher for Oregon men.
"To be sure, I think 1 in 3 is B.S. on both counts. It counts a variety of behaviors that most people would not consider 'abuse.' Leftist activists are forever engaging in this sort of concept creep. Stretching the meaning of words in order to generate more outrage, until the original meaning is lost. An unwanted look is now 'rape,' disapproving of your spouse's spending habits is now 'abuse,' that sort of thing."
TenebreaRea, in response: "This is an article about a woman who was physically abused for years. At what point in reading it did you panic and decide to construct the blue ribbon winner in the World's Laziest Straw Man competition?
"I'm sure you can direct me to a rape conviction based on a mean look, or a restraining order based on a stupid purchase. I'm positive that's a thing you can do. I'm sure that's very, VERY REAL and not just some nonsense you frantically came up with because the idea of accountability makes you nervous for some reason."
Carolyn Crain, via wweek.com: "Oregon's restraining order is not in compliance with federal law. This makes for a very complicated mix of issues as the restraining order is so loose and can truly impact an accused individual on a 'he said, she said' basis with their rights to bear arms and their ability to gain employment. The entire system needs rethought so that true protections and real consequences are in place."
Deborah L Lop, via Facebook: "Oregon lawmakers: Please read all, especially the article at the end which shows the extremely critical need for legislative change yesterday."
Letters to the editor must include the author's street address and phone number for verification. Letters must be 250 or fewer words.
Submit to: 2220 NW Quimby St., Portland, OR 97210.
Email: mzusman@wweek.com
