Day 24: A Sexual Violence Misconception I’d Like to Change
That there is an “expected” reaction of all survivors. Everyone responds to trauma differently.
During an assault, survivors may try to escape, they may try to fight, or they may freeze. Any reaction during an assault is valid.
After an assault, survivors may react in tears and panic, they may react stoically, and they may react with humor. Any emotion is valid.
After an assault, survivors does not have to disclose to anyone they do not want to, they do not have to report their crime, and they do not have to go through a legal process. Any version of desired justice is valid.
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Sexual violence affects all genders, races, abilities, and socio economic backgrounds. It can and does affect all walks of life, so why would we expect everyone to react the same?
#nsvrc #saam #30daysofsaam #sexualassault #sexualviolence #survivor #ally #activism #advocacy #inclusive #feminism