The Iola Public Library in conjunction with Humanity House, Hope Unlimited and the Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center is bringing a series of sessions discussing sexual assault and abuse that begins at 3 p.m. today at the Flewharty Annex. These monthly sessions will focus on bringing a message of hope and empowerment. Todays session will define what sexual abuse is, who is affected, and how you can help or find help.
Sexual abuse is not a new thing. Forty years ago it was not spoken of. Shame, fear, and guilt and victimization and self-blaming kept many from speaking out. Now we talk about it, but the same feelings keep people from coming forward. Sexual abuse can happen to anyone, at any age from infancy to old age. It can be a one-time occurence or it can happen every day. It can be physically violent or mentally torturous, or both. It is for the most part not a stranger lurking in the dark, but a trusted family friend or family member, the clergyman, teacher, lawyer, psychologist, banker, your best friends parent or sibling, a boyfriend, a husband or wife.
When a person is a victim, either through incest, sexual abuse from a stranger or someone known to them, fear is the first dominant emotion. Everyone you meet becomes someone who could harm you. It takes great courage to come forward and relate these events when you feel powerless.
The most important thing in a persons recovery is the support they receive after the abuse. The number one way that we survive the horror is through support from the people that we are surrounded by. Support by law enforcement and our justice system is critical. Mental health support is life-saving.
Sexual abuse does not have to be life-altering. It can be something that happened to you, it doesnt have to define you.
WE HOPE that you will take part in these series of sessions from today through April.
We hope that the information will help you see, with open eyes, yourself or those that you love. We hope that they encourage you to have conversations. We hope that they encourage you to heal.
At each session there will be support available, information on ways to seek help or to be helpful. One act of sexual violence or years of sexual abuse does not have to ruin a life. We hope that you will seek out this series and are able to reach out to others.
For more information of dates and times of the upcoming sessions contact the Iola Public Library, Hope Unlimited or Humanity House. Kindness matters!
