Sexual assault is a crime unlike any other. The victims are mostly women, but that’s where the common factor ends. It can happen to any woman, any time, in any country. There are no exceptions.<\/p>\n
The wounds that it leaves behind aren’t only physical, of course. They are spiritual and emotional wounds that can last a lifetime. For years a victim might jump when someone accidentally touches them on the bus. They might recall dreadful memories when they hear the news that it happened to someone else. <\/p>\n
But the worst part is the incredible isolation of it. Feelings of shame can cause people to withdraw, even though they have done absolutely nothing wrong. So what would normally help, can’t this time. Their families can’t support them and feel helpless because they don’t know what the problem is. Victims feel scared, scarred, alone and devastated. <\/p>\n
People are communal animals. The burden of tragedies and hardships are easiest when borne together. These women need to know that they aren’t alone. They need to find a way to start living their lives again. A happy, fulfilling life. But first, they need to talk about what happened to them, no matter how long ago it was.<\/p>\n
\nIf you\u2019ve been sexually harassed or assaulted write \u2018me too\u2019 as a reply to this tweet. pic.twitter.com\/k2oeCiUf9n<\/a><\/p>\n
— Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) October 15, 2017<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n