A new six-episode podcast series, The Defendants, was created, hosted and executive-produced by Jane Aster Roe, with the goal of deepening public understanding around sexual assault cases, from the very public to the private, unpacking why conviction rates remain chronically and systemically low, while offering up forward-thinking ways and big ideas to help bring about meaningful change.
About ‘The Defendants’
Despite the magnitude of the Me Too movement and the accompanying public campaigns against sexual abuse, harassment and rape culture, the pendulum has clearly swung back.
Each episode of The Defendants features interviews, personal reflections, and conversations with legal experts, advocates, and individuals with lived experience, offering listeners a deeper look at the realities of sexual assault cases and the often-complicated path toward justice.
By deconstructing legal frameworks, justice system processes, social dynamics, and the personal impact surrounding sexual assault cases, the podcast aims to move beyond the headlines and encourage thoughtful, interpersonal and informed dialogue for all citizens to participate in and become more aware of.
Interview with Jane Aster Roe, Host and Producer of ‘The Defendants’
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jane Aster Roe to learn more about the start and planning of The Defendants. Here she shares great insights into the podcast logistics but also hopes for meaningful changes in the judicial system in Canada and beyond.
For full episodes of The Defendents are available to stream now. Find them anywhere you listen to podcast or via the podcast website.
