By Lana Eldjoundi (@lanaeldjoundi)
Art by curious_lauren
TikTok has taken over by storm, filling the screens of people all over the world. The social media platform was created with the intention for people to share their thoughts, ideas, and laughs with all their followers. But some women on the app are using it for a different purpose.
Women of all ages use TikTok to share their story and use their voice. These videos of women sharing their experience with sexual assault are both powerful and moving. By using such creative ways to demonstrate and explain their story they share their pain while at the same time fuelling you with their strength, leaving you stronger than ever before. It’s as if they are giving you a bit of their own strength to help you through your own struggles.
One way women are doing this is with paint. Yes, paint. TikTok creators such as xxalaynahxx, miraclllllee, and golden_hauer use paint and their own hands to leave marks on their body to indicate where their abusers inappropriately touched them or hurt them. As the video goes on, they use the text feature to type out their story such as when it happened, how old they were when it happened, or even what they have to say to their abusers now.
This trend does not stop at women. Men too are making videos and sharing their survival stories. TikTok creator theycallmedocinich talked about his struggles after he was roofied and assaulted on a night out. Despite these struggles, he ends the video expressing how this experience made him stronger than ever before leaving him a better father for his young daughter.
Reliving memories as traumatic as these is one of the hardest things a person can do. My heart goes out to each and every one of these survivors.Their strength, courage, and bravery motivate me everyday and I hope they do the same for you.
Sexual assault and sexual abuse is a prevelant issue taking place in our society today. It must stop now. If you or a loved one has experienced any form of assault, please don't hesitate to reach out and get help. Contact your local sexual assault hotline.
Comentários