10 Reasons Why SA Victims Don’t Come Forward
Photo by Anete-Lusina
**Trigger Warning**
The past years have brought about a large awareness regarding the prevalence of sexual assaults in our society. Thanks to social organizations and non-profits focussed on supporting survivors of sexual assault, we are aware that sexual assault is a crime that can cause irreparable harm to a person, family and community. We’ve also learned, via accusations against people across the social spectrum and industries, that anyone can be a sexual predator.
All of this awareness is great! It creates space for some victimized persons to come forward and seek justice. But, for so many others, this opportunity still doesn’t exist. It’s easy to assume that reporting is as simple as just calling the police…it isn’t. Below are the top 10 reasons, from the 2 years+ of GOTU research, why reporting sexual violence doesn’t happen:
Fear of Further Harm from the Perpetrator (including death)
Fear of Abandonment from Friends and Family; Fear of Homelessness
Didn’t Know They Were Assaulted
Fear of Police
Perpetrator is a Caregiver, Spouse, Parent, Other Family Member, Boss / Co-Worker
Fear of Unemployment
Turned Away by Police or Medical Responders
Bullied, Blamed or Shamed by the Perpetrator or Their Friends and Family
Fear of Not Being Believed
Feeling Responsible for the Crime
Whether you’re a victimized person; know someone who has been victimized; or, don’t have any experience with victimization, it’s important for you to understand that the above issues are very real for some. They may seem like excuses, but that perception is based upon your life experience. It’s not okay to project your experience or expectations onto to others, especially traumatized persons.
To promote a culture that supports survivors and makes it safe to report to authorities, it’s necessary to focus on removing these barriers. You can do this by not promoting sexual assault culture; continuing to educate yourself on sexual violence; and, being an ally.