Escaping Silence

 

What does rape look like? In this hectic world, we often race by one another making no eye contact; offering no greeting. There are so many distracting factors to keep us from entertaining focus into anyone else’s life. I began to wonder how many of us would know what rape looked like. According to current statistics, Sherry Clester (Victim Advocate for Pinellas County Public Defender’s Office) stated that only seventeen percent of rape victims actually talk about it. That leaves an astonishing eighty three percent silent! That number led me to wonder what can be done to break the silence, what services are offered for victims and what can be done to prevent it. If silence is the go to for eighty three percent of rape victims, the solution would be to offer options to get them talking and begin the healing process.

 

I.                   What can be done to break the silence?

A.    The perpetuation of knowledge would help reduce the number of victims who do not feel confident enough to speak.

B.     Awareness of the support systems available would offer open doors for those who need support.

C.     Knowledge of the protective services available should be made accessible to all people.

II.                What services are offered to rape victims?

A.    Injunctions can protect victims who are awaiting the decision of guilt in the courts.

B.     Relocation services are offered to victims whose rapist knows where they live.

C.     Counseling is available to those who need help with their healing process.

III.             What can we do to prevent rape from taking place?

A.    Knowledge of current statistics and rape related facts can help us raise awareness.

B.     Self Defense classes are something we all should consider in order to be able to protect ourselves when necessary.

C.     Safety measures should be followed while travelling in the dark or obscure locations.

 

In a fast paced digital world, we often forget the story behind the pupil. Many services exist for the victims of rape. However, with the current eighty three percent unable to find their voice, so many continue suffering in silence. The more knowledge and awareness we can raise about this terrible topic, the more healing can take place. I believe with the right levels of awareness and education we can stop some from every becoming victims at all. Look at me. I am what rape looks like.