I Hate Being a Statistic

Disclaimer:  In this episode, Carlen will discuss sexual assault and violence.

In this episode, host Carlen Costa shares her personal experience of sexual assault and discusses the many impacts it can have on victims. She provides statistics, definitions, and examples of different types of sexual assault while providing support for both survivors and their friends and family. She also highlights the need for systemic change and encourages listeners to take action and support organizations that help survivors.

Takeaways:

• Sexual assault and violence are prevalent issues that affect many individuals, particularly women and gender diverse individuals.
• Survivors of sexual assault may experience a range of emotions and responses, and it is important to provide support and believe their stories.
• Reporting sexual assault to the police is a personal decision, and survivors may face various barriers and concerns when deciding whether to report.
• Supporting survivors and advocating for systemic change are crucial in addressing and preventing sexual assault and violence.
• Educating oneself and others about consent, supporting safe spaces, and raising awareness are important steps in creating a safer society.

For immediate assistance, please call one of the following 24-hour helplines:

Human Trafficking Helpline:  1-833-900-1010

Assaulted Women’s Helpline:  1-866-863-0511

Anova 24-Hour Crisis and Support Line:  519-642-3000

Resources:

https://canadianwomen.org/the-facts/sexual-assault-harassment/

https://sexualassaultsupport.ca/statistics-sexual-violence-in-canada/

https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/scc-condom-use-case-decision-1.6535127

https://bcsth.ca/what-to-do-if-someone-has-shared-or-threatened-to-share-your-intimate-image/

https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/rp-pr/cj-jp/victim/rr14_01/p10.html

https://www.gov.nl.ca/vpi/tips-and-tools/tips-to-help-a-friend-who-has-been-sexually-assaulted/

Find out more about Carlen Costa and her practice:

https://www.carlencosta.com/

April is Sexual Assault Awareness month; a month of solidarity dedicated to sexual assault victims. It’s meant to raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual assault and violence while sharing information and resources to foster a great understanding of consent.

https://opdv.ny.gov/april-sexual-assault-awareness-month

Some statistics from www.sexassault.ca:

1 in 4 women in North America will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime.

For every 100 incidents in Canada, only 6 are reported to police.

Over 80% of sex crime victims in Canada are women.

Fewer than half of sexual assault cases in adult criminal court result in a guilty verdict. (www.justice.gc.ca)

Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence

A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support organizations that provide relief and guidance to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. Proceeds from Women in Media Network launch merchandise will support the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.womeninmedia.network/. Access the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.lawc.on.ca/