Dear reader,

 

The start of this project sparked from a sudden determination of three women being inspired of the bravery of a young girl I am proud to call my sister. My sisters story might discourage you, but instead it encouraged us to do better for all women, especially those who live in the same place we call home. This story might be hard to read especially for those who have been through similar circumstances before, so please read at your own discretion. I will be highlighting the end of the potentially triggering part so please feel free to skip any part that you might find to be triggering.

 

My eleven year old sister was inappropriately touched on her chest area by a classmate. She reacted immediately, told a trusted adult and then when she came home, told her legal guardian. I am so proud of her that she was able to do what was right, that she didn't stay silent as to what was happening. However the educators at school not only brushed off her concerns, but they failed to take any action or inform her legal guardian. It was only my sisters decision to tell our mother what had happened, and my mothers knowledge about COCSA (child on child sexual abuse) that lead to her speaking to the higher ups of the school about this sexual harrasment that took place and to demand action. Only after repeated talks with the school administrationl any action was taken.

 

This rightfully angered me, but what came next was the turning point. Other children, my sisters classmates,  also came forward with their experiences, all similar to what she went through. 

 

Maybe they did not realize what happened to them was wrong, maybe they were scared and maybe it was my sisters actions and the support of my mother was the thing that lead them to understand that they had been assaulted and they should not be afraid of telling their stories.

(End of triggering content)

This whole experience made me realize this: we do not teach our children about the importance of consent, what is a ‘wrong touch’ or what they should do if they ever feel violated. Educating people about these topics could be the difference between a survivor getting support or not and it can even prevent sexual assult.

 

We hope that we can be a stepping stone on the way of helping people take a step forward. We hope we can help you. 

 

Thank you for reading, and remember this: You can do this, you are not alone. 

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- C.K.