Know Your Rights As A Survivor Of Sexual Violence

A non-consensual sexual act (assault or abuse) violates more than a person's physical security; it is an attack on their autonomy and an abuse of power and trust. The process of recovering from this trauma, therefore, often takes much longer than the time it takes for any physical harm sustained during the assault or abuse to heal. Bruising on a person's skin will disappear much faster than a bruise on their very sense of self, their diminished capacity to trust, or the debilitating effects of post-traumatic stress.

Regaining autonomy and reestablishing control over their lives are powerful actions survivors can work towards as they repair the harm they have suffered. Survivors frequently express that they feel very much alone after experiencing sexual violence. But, there are many people and services ready and willing to stand with them and offer support as survivors choose their own path forward.