How do old myths keep returning in New Language?
Door 18 places an old story and the New Language used to carry it side by side: the same blaming script, made to sound more modern, more reasonable, and easier to miss.
It asks you to notice which phrases still circulate, who they protect, and what happens when blame survives by changing its tone rather than its meaning.
Story text
Door 18 – Old Story, New Language
Door 18 – Old Story, New Language
This door lays the older story and the New Language beside each other. What changes is not always the message, but the polish: blame made softer, more familiar, more acceptable to repeat.
As you listen, notice which phrases seem ordinary enough to pass without challenge, and how easily an old myth survives when it no longer sounds ancient.
Reflection
Pause here
- Where have you heard “she led him on” or “he couldn’t help himself” in real life – in conversation, media, work, faith spaces, or family stories?
- When you hear those phrases now, what other words could you choose instead that tell the truth without shifting blame?
- Who is protected by this New Language, and whose safety or credibility is quietly made smaller?
Support information and links
Support information and links connected to domestic abuse awareness and survivor support. [file:151]
Bedfordshire based services
Butterflies in Shades of Grey
The Butterflies in Shades of Grey programme is a comprehensive support initiative designed to assist both direct and indirect victims of domestic and sexual violence. This programme acknowledges the complex nature of trauma and offers a multi-faceted approach to healing and empowerment.
Bedfordshire Police
Bedfordshire Police and partner agencies provide information and campaign support around violence and abuse against women and girls, including rape and sexual offences, stalking and domestic abuse.
BDAP
Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership offers information, support pathways and local connections for people affected by domestic abuse across Bedfordshire.
National services
24 Hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline for Women
0808 2000 247
Helping women escape domestic abuse.
ManKind Initiative
0808 800 1170
Helping men escape domestic abuse.
Galop
0800 999 5428
Support for LGBT+ people who have experienced abuse and violence.
16 Days of Action 2025
This year’s 16 Days of Action Our House tour and workshops is proud to be funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Grassroots Innovation Fund.