Sexual abuse is complex.
While the obvious form is rape, what does that constitute as?
Is rape just when a woman is forced to give up her body to a man?
Or, can rape also be when a woman is coerced into having a sexual interaction when she does not want to?
Can rape happen between romantic partners?
The answer to the latter questions is yes.
Sexual assault is still such a taboo topic but, the truth is that the number of women who speak about the abuse is far lower than the reality. Statistics say that one in five women are or have been assaulted at some point. Although, standing in a room full of people, hearing the stories I have heard, it seems that number may be much higher. Another statistic is that almost eighty percent of women who are either victims or survivors knew their attacker.
I was speaking with a family member, whom I know endured such horrors. I shared bits of my own encounters that were less fortunate and asked if she would be ok if I documented some of the stories that she had on this matter. She said to me
"Why, people don't talk about this kind of stuff."
But that is precisely why as a woman who endured such events, both as a child and a woman, I feel the need to open my mouth and share my story. If I don't, who am I protecting?
other forms of sexual abuse are; sexual humiliation, controlled or limited reproductive freedom, being intentionally hurt during a sexual encounter.
If you or someone you know may need help with this please contact this confidential help line:
800.656.4673
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger please contact
911
Add comment
Comments