Why do I share my story?
That’s simple. There are 2 main reasons.
First, it takes away the embarrassment and control that my perpetrators had over me. I will not be embarrassed for having sex. I will not be embarrassed for dating someone who lied about who they were. I will not be embarrassed because someone else chose to steal from me, my most personal moments. No. I will stand tall and continue living. I will, however, get justice. They simply awoke a beast they should have left sleeping.
Second, this type of sexual exploitation is happening all over the world. Many of us are so naïve that we do not believe it is the people closest to us. Trust me, it is. Awareness is the first step to change. When the New York Times article title “Children of Pornhub” came out, Serena Fleites told her story of sexual exploitation. Serena is a child. Why should our children have to stand up and bring awareness to what is going on in the world? I am a grown woman, and I will take a stand with you Serena. I am so proud of you. Thank you for lighting the way for us survivors.