The intersection of gender and class in Ilanga and Isolezwe news coverage of rape

This briefing explores the contribution of print press to social definitions of rape by examining the intersection of gender and class in media coverage of rape. Drawing on a content analysis of selected case-based Ilanga and Isolezwe newspaper articles about rape, it recognises the need for the public to be informed about rape crime. However, it argues that reporting can endorse the invisibility of certain groups of people and enhance the visibility of other groups. Furthermore, it argues that whereas reporting of a rape crime committed either by strangers or to children transcends gender politics in that perpetrators are reported as such, class can direct reporting at discounting women's allegations of rape and justifying the masquerading of rape as seduction or provocation. It concludes by asking whether press coverage helps or hinders efforts towards a safe and just society.