#MeToo encourages people to publicly voice their stories of harassment and abuse, but social media can lure victims into a false sense of security as a safe and protected space. It’s important the legal rules be plainly explained to avoid costly consequences that may push victims back into the shadows again, or worse, victimize them with a double-edged sword –…
When a victim recounts their abuse, they often face an uphill battle of doubt and unbelievability. If studies show that 81% of females and 43% of males face harassment, abuse, and/or assault in their lifetime1, why is it so hard for us to believe them? I was being abused on a regular basis as a kid and it escalated throughout…
Recently I read Monica Hesse’s Washington Post article, “Dear dads: Your daughters told me about their assaults. This is why they never told you.” and found it extremely insightful. In fact, it made me wonder if we as survivors, we’re not hindering our own path to change. Now, before you start getting upset and calling me insensitive, I want you…
With the recent allegations against the Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, I have heard repeatedly the question of why she did not come out sooner and tell her story. Doubt, blame, and re-victimization from our own President fuels others to bring into question the validity of accusers. This is not new and, for those who have not experienced sexual abuse,…
