The story of teenager, Elizabeth Shoaf, was told on Dateline tonight. Her story speaks of the reality of pure evil in our world and the strength to overcome it. I am always moved to hear how others survive sexual assault. Each story in someway pushes me to advocate more. There is so much out there that often doesn't support them - our justice system, myths, stereotypes, even family and friends. I will blog more on this issue later, but for now I wanted to share with you a true survivor. Elizabeth proves the strength and resilience of kids - we adults can learn a lot from her.
This story happened in South Carolina. Elizabeth's story is not the norm. Statistics show that only 10% of abusers in child sexual abuse cases are strangers. 90% of children are sexually abused by people they know and trust.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23522127/ (Dateline Story- In to the Woods)
http://insidedateline.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/03/06/739278.aspx (Elizabeth's Blog)
"survivors are part turtle
we are part potato bug
we know enough to go fetal
'til it's still up above" - Ani Difranco
"and what if there are no damsels in distress
what if i knew that and i called your bluff
don't you think every kitten figures out how to get down
whether or not you ever show up" -Ani Difranco
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