In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we have a writer who wanted to share her thoughts on #MeToo. While she wishes to remain anonymous, we thank her for her contribution as it sheds light on this current issue.
In light of the #MeToo movement, I wanted to share my thoughts and experience as an Auburn woman and mom.
Why do women wait 30 years to come out and tell their story? Why did they not tell their story when it happened? Why did they wait until the perpetrator was being appointed or running for a high profile position? Why did the women not do anything about it over the years?
Why did I not share my story over 10 years ago? Why am I hiding behind an anonymous blog to tell my story? Why am I not naming the perpetrator of my story? Why have I not shared the anxiety, regret, depression, and eating disorder that plagued my life for so many years as a result? Because I am a victim of sexual assault. I am one of those women who never reported being assaulted. I am a survivor. I never wanted to relive that night in front of police, a jury, and most of all, my family. The event was shrouded with shame. Shame I should not have had to carry alone, but chose to do so.
So before you ask… “why did they wait so long,” put yourself in the shoes of the victims. Think back to the worst moment of your life and ask yourself, “would I want to relive that moment over and over again?”
My answer is no, I did not and do not want to live through that again. But to the brave women and men who have been assaulted and spoken up, thank you. Thank you for being braver than I am. Thank you for using your voice.
