Photo exhibit shatters stereotypes about survivors of sexual exploitation
These women have made it a point not to be defined by victimization
In the Art Room of Willard Straight Hall, you’ll find yourself surrounded by photographic portraits of women who share a common story: they have all been victims of sexual exploitation.
They have made it a point not to be defined by their victimization. They are survivors who are now leaders in their communities, raising awareness about the issue of Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children and inspiring other women who have been sexually exploited.
The exhibit, “More Than A Survivor: More Than A Story,” is put on by Students Against the Sexual Solicitation of Youth and Girls Educational & Mentoring Services.
Each portrait is complemented by a small laminated card detailing that woman’s story of living through domestic trafficking and how she became a leader to fight against it.
“My parents began abusing me very early on, subjecting me to physical abuse, emotional neglect, and incest,” one reads.
The exhibit exists to shatter the stereotypical image of sexually exploited women as permanently fragile and limited. The photos portray women in an active, powerful role, highlighting their respective careers as preachers, activists, writers, nurses, painters, construction workers.
“I want survivor leaders and girls to know that it is possible to do more than just overcome your trauma. It is possible to reclaim your identity, to find purpose and meaning, and to feel love and joy,” reads one of the laminated cards.
It is a beautiful exhibit highlighting an issue which deserves our attention. I recommend everyone check out the Art Room of WSH before the exhibit closes on the 20th and to check out SASSY, which meets every other Monday at 5pm in 100 Barnes Hall, to get involved with the fight against sexual exploitation.