➳ author’s note

Sexual violence is difficult to talk about in the United States, because our society is plagued by rape culture–a toxic environment characterized by slut-shaming, victim-blaming, patriarchal definitions of masculinity and femininity, etc. Survivors like me are often silenced by this culture (as well as fears of compromised safety and re-traumatization). Not only are we silenced by others, but we’re also silenced by the legal system; according to the Rape Abuse & Incest National Network, about 1 in 6 women and 1 in 33 men have been victims of rape or attempted rape, yet only .007% of rape cases result in criminal convictions and even less eventuate jail time. Through writing poems about sexual violence, I hope to give a voice to the voiceless–to raise awareness and bring validation to my fellow survivors. My heart swells for those who have found the courage to speak up about their sexual assaults (as well as those who are unable or unready to speak up). You are survivors and you will heal, slowly but surely.