Save Perth Activists from Legal Debt

Our so-called justice system does not protect victims of sexual violence. Eden and Isla Barlow, siblings and band members of Perth punk band, Body Horrors, have experienced first-hand the failures of our police force and legal system. After being assaulted, Eden presented to police to perform a rape kit, only to be scolded for showering beforehand, have their clothes seized by police for months, and eventually, watch their rapist walk free.

As a result of Eden’s experience, as well as countless stories from victims, the Barlows began to utilise their social media to call out alleged perpetrators, in an attempt to keep the music scene safe for all. It is because of this invaluable work that Eden and Isla have been served with two defamation lawsuits from alleged abusers.

It is important to note, that it is victims that are the most at risk when reporting an act of sexual violence, especially when the perpetrator is in a position of power, through fame, followers, or other means. They open themselves up to public scrutiny, potential harassment or further abuse from their perpetrator, and the trauma of repeated questioning and reliving the events. It is no wonder that the majority of victims delay reporting their assaults - if they ever report them at all. Research both in Australia, and globally, consistently indicates that cases of sexual violence are severely under-reported, under-prosecuted, and under-convicted. Additionally, the statistics indicate that only 5% (approximately) of rape charges are proven to be false or misleading. However, perpetrators can utilise the fear of false accusation to silence their victims and win over juries.

In an interview, Eden once joked that Body Horrors was well named, as chronic illness and disability were common traits among its members. Eden and Isla both have Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), a connective tissue disorder occurring in 1 out of 5000 people. The symptoms of this disorder are extensive and debilitating and have frequently rendered the siblings unable to play gigs or maintain steady traditional employment. Unsurprisingly, legal representation is an expense that Eden and Isla, like many young disabled people, cannot afford. Due to the complexities and nuances of cases involving accusations of sexual violence, the Barlows have been unsuccessful in finding a lawyer who is willing to represent them pro-bono.

Without the support of the community – the community that they have sacrificed so much to keep safe – Eden and Isla will be forced to declare bankruptcy in their twenties.

If you have the means to, I urge you to donate to Eden and Isla’s legal representation fund. Victims and allies do not deserve to be financially decimated for speaking out.

All funds will go directly to Eden and Isla Barlow, to help pay for legal fees and other expenses associated with ongoing cases. If legal aid is secured, the funds will assist the siblings in cost of living expenses.