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"I spoke out to put a face to the issue for the millions of women, men and children who suffer in silence and to say that you are not alone. Help is available." ~ Ayanna Pressley, Boston City Councilor (Photo by Christopher Mason)
For Victims and Survivors of Sexual Violence
Sexual violence or sexual assault is any unwanted sexual attention, contact, or activity. Sexual violence violates a person’s trust, autonomy, and feeling of safety.
Several terms such as sexual assault, rape, drug or alcohol facilitated sexual assault, date rape have both legal and societal meanings.
You May Feel
A wide range of emotions are normal reactions to being sexually assaulted. Talking with a trained advocate and other survivors of sexual violence can really make a difference.
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The sense of shame and guilt that can often accompany sexual violence can be the strongest and most difficult feelings to move through.
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You may also feel a profound sense of violation, intrusion, shakiness, and vulnerability.
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You may be afraid of how friends, family, co-workers, or your partner will respond to your experience
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You may feel self-protective and worried about whether reaching out for help will help or harm you.
Sexual violence is never the victim’s fault. Whether you experienced an assault recently or many years ago, you have the right to safety and freedom from violence. You also have the right to support and assistance.
Immediate Steps After A Sexual Assault
Your local rape crisis center can assist you with crisis counseling and provide helpful information about steps you can take immediately after a sexual assault. An advocate can answer questions, provide emotional support, and try to arrange for someone to meet you at the hospital or with law enforcement. We've also prepared a short list of steps for you to consider to help begin your process toward safety and justice.
Help is Available
- Programs for Survivors – Remember: you do not have to be in crisis to call.
- Victim’s Compensation provides financial assistance for specific items to eligible victims of violent crime (brochure and application are available in English and Spanish)
- Resources for perpetrators
- Help for friends or family members
