now, i'm not saying that all survivors have to come out. it is a personal choice that should be left up to the survivor alone. but for those of us who want to come out but have been afraid, maybe it's time to start making that leap in supportive settings. naming your experience for what it is and being counted can be a powerful and empowering experience.

my name is erin and i am survivor of childhood sexual abuse at the hands of my grandfather. i'm also a survivor of sexual harassment on the streets, in the classroom, from teachers, peers, friends, strangers. i am a survivor of sexual violence and i am not ashamed.

let the silence be shattered.