Enforcing requirements for consent consistently delivers the message that people aren’t entitled to us or our possessions. It also reinforces that we are prioritizing  our own feelings, wants and needs over theirs. This messaging lets other people know that we understand our value.

Therapy teaches participants how to survive the violence in a way that doesn’t require us to abandon ourselves. In fact, a good therapist teaches us how to tap into our authentic selves.

The justice system presumes innocence until guilt is proven. As survivors of sexually violent crimes, many of us know our perpetrators. But until systemic change occurs, survivors will continue to be let down by the system.