Countdown to Natalie Portman’s 18th Birthday: The Day She Became Legally Eligible for Romance
Staff Editor At the tender age of 13, Natalie Portman was subjected to a countdown clock by a radio station counting down the days until she turned 18 and would be “legal to sleep with”. This experience has stayed with her throughout her life as an actress and activist.
Portman is now heavily involved in feminist causes like Times Up and the Women’s March, which fight for gender equality. In response to being sexualized at such an early age, she described it as “sexual terrorism.” She believes that no one should have their body used against them or treated as if they are objects of sexual desire before they are ready or old enough to make those decisions themselves.
This incident serves as yet another example of how women’s bodies can be commodified in today’s society without any regard for their feelings or autonomy over their own lives. It also highlights why organizations like Times Up exist – so that people can stand up against this type of objectification and reclaim control over their bodies on our terms alone.
