I need a more formal expression for "saying that" here. I couldn't find another formal expression
Saying that rape culture is an environment where emotional and physical violence against women is the norm is, in a way, normalizing and excusing sexist behaviors and beliefs.
Best Answer
Here are a few options for your consideration:
In your example: To state [or, Stating] that rape culture is an environment where emotional and physical violence against women is the norm is, in a way, normalizing and excusing sexist behaviors and beliefs.
In your example: To assert [or, Asserting ] that rape culture is an environment where emotional and physical violence against women is the norm is, in a way, normalizing and excusing sexist behaviors and beliefs.
In your example: To characterize [or, Characterizing ] rape culture as an environment where emotional and physical violence against women is the norm is, in a way, normalizing and excusing sexist behaviors and beliefs."