Dear Survivor Community,

If the decades long wave of sexual harassment and sexual assault revelations has taught us anything, it’s that we have not done enough to end sexual harassment, gender-based violence, and sex trafficking. Each year, thousands of people in the U.S. are forced to perform sexual acts against their will and are exploited by high profile traffickers for money. Sexual abuse and assault involving any gender or age is significantly under-reported or all too often digresses into victim-blaming rather than holding offenders accountable.

Right now we are in a moment that calls on all of us–out of human decency–not to look away from the sexual violence and isolation perpetrated on men and boys, women and girls, adults and children. The recent public discussion of the Epstein/Maxwell case deserves a response from all of us. It is the silence and collusion of the perpetrators, living and dead, no matter who they are, that continue to keep the system of abuse alive. The sexual violation and tragic suicide of Virginia Giuffre was the result of continued silence—in effect, “the second rape.” This is the betrayal that affects the victim, the families who support them, and all of us who want healing.

Sexual abuse of a child is particularly heinous. This is not only a physical violation; it is a violation of trust. A child cannot consent to any form of sexual activity, period. When a perpetrator engages sexually with a child, they are committing a crime that can have lasting effects on the victim for years, if not a lifetime. Abusers often use their position of power to coerce, manipulate, intimidate, or threaten victims to stay quiet. Abusers may even tell a child that the activity is normal or that the child enjoyed or consented to it. Again, a child cannot consent to any form of sexual activity, period. 

We urge you to be a voice of trauma and hope today. 

How? By reading this, you’ve taken the first step to combat sexual violence. Make a commitment to stay actively informed about the many kinds of sexual trauma experienced and witnessed in your lifetime. Follow social media for organizations that provide healing services for survivors or that advocate for compensation to those who have been harmed.

A next step is to make your voice heard, to find any way within your reach to hold those who commit abuse accountable. Join us in signing a petition or contact your local lawmakers demanding justice and accountability for victims.

1 out of every 4 women and 1 of every 6 men have experienced sexual harm during their lifetime, so you probably have someone in your life who has been impacted by this crime.

Taking Back Ourselves and Men Healing are partner organizations deeply committed to helping survivors of sexual abuse and assault heal physically and emotionally. We embrace vulnerability and recognize the pain and trauma victims experience. Our Weekends of Recovery offer a safe and confidential place that reduces feelings of isolation, fosters a sense of belonging, and builds a community where victims are believed.

Visit Taking Back Ourselves and Men Healing to sign up for our confidential list to receive newsletters with updated information.  

Your voice matters.