An open letter to our community

An open letter to our community,

In response to recent cases of sexual violence, and the use of social media used to blame and shame victim-survivors, Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS) for Women SDG & A reaches out to those affected by sexual violence in Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Akwesasne.

The stories of young women who ended their lives – Rehtaeh Parsons, Audrey Pott, Amanda Todd – are too common. Rehtaeh, Audrey and Amanda’s stories are not just about bullying or the malicious use of social media: more, these young women’s stories speak of the impacts of sexual violence. These young women felt ashamed. The shame should not be theirs, but that of their aggressors – both those who perpetrated sexual violence against them, and those who participated in the distribution of images.

We reach out to survivors of sexual violence, their support people, and to anyone who may find themselves as a bystander in situations of sexual violence. For example:

It may be a friend who tells you that something happened to her

It might be a party you attend, where a guest is so intoxicated that she cannot say yes or no

It may be a picture that crosses your email inbox.

If something has happened to you, there are people who will support you. You can talk to a trusted friend, family member, or contact a sexual assault centre support line. There is a sexual assault centre in SDG & A. You can call us at 613-932-1755. All calls are free and confidential.

If you see something happen to someone else, there are things you can do. You can speak up, or step in. You can ask for help from others, and then step in together. You can be an ally to the person who is victimized, instead of the aggressors. Last, you can choose NOT to pass along questionable photos that are forwarded to you.

If you are an adult, there are things you can do too. You can talk to young people in your life about the courage it takes to intervene. You can remind them about supportive people – for example, teachers, school community officers, youth center staff, guidance counselors – that can help if they ever need to talk about something troubling or serious. Last, you can model to young people what it means to not tolerate sexual violence:

Speak out against jokes about rape, sexual violence and “slut-shaming”

Resist laughing at jokes about sexual violence

Ask youth in your life what they think about stories of sexual violence in the news

SASS for Women SDG & A recognizes the impact of sexual violence on young women. We believe that education and information goes a long way toward the prevention of violence.  Together, we will make a difference.

Melissa Hatch, Executive Director

SASS for Women SDG & A