Expose Sexual Abuse

By Cheryl Mattox Berry 

Everyday, there are stories on TV, radio, the Internet and in newspapers about children and teens being sexually abused by men trusted to look after them – priests, relatives, teachers, police officers, mentors and state workers. I can’t imagine the pain and suffering victims endure at the hands of these predators.

No matter how embarrassing the incident may be, victims must tell someone so that the abuse can stop and healing can begin. The man who is taking advantage of you may have threatened to kill you or your family, and you’re scared. Don’t be. The law is on your side. He can’t hurt you behind bars, but he‘ll continue to do so if you don’t report him.

If the abuser is someone in your house, tell your mother. If she doesn’t believe you, go to another relative, a godmother or counselor if school is in session. Keep talking until someone believes you. Act out. Scream. When the person comes near you and other people are around, yell at him: “I told everybody that you … (describe in graphic detail what he did.) And I’m going to call the police.”  Then, pick up the phone and call 911. You should get the help you need after that.

Whatever you do, don’t keep silent and give the abuser a chance to hurt someone else. Rarely, is sexual assault confined to just one person. He may be molesting other members of your family.

You didn’t ask to be victim, so don’t be. By speaking out, you take back your power. No one has the right to violate your body. You’re not to blame for what happened because you’re a child. An adult committed a crime against you and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

Girls who hide the fact that they’ve been sexually assaulted often face a lifetime of emotional problems. Many aren’t able to enjoy a loving relationship with a man. Don’t let the abuser victimize you twice by destroying your chance to live happily ever after.

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