Why We Need to Speak Up Against Child Abusers (Yes, Duggars, We’re Talking About You)

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Let me share something personal. When I was just a kid, around 7 or 8, I knew deep down that what was happening to me was wrong. But I didn’t stop it. I remember sitting there in silence as he inappropriately touched me, right under a blanket, while my grandparents were just a few feet away. When he asked if it felt good, I nodded. When he said, “You’re not going to tell anyone, right?” I shook my head.

For weeks, I kept up the charade, even encouraging him with my silence. It was only when the nightmares started that my mom began to piece together the truth. “Kristen, did someone touch you? Was it that guy?” I’ll never forget her fierce words to him over the phone at 2 AM: “If you ever lay a hand on my daughter again, I will CUT YOUR BALLS OFF.” But he was family, and the secret remained buried, as it often does.

I still grapple with the shame of it all. Despite no one ever blaming me, I still feel like I let it happen. Why didn’t I push his hand away or scream? I still make excuses for him in my head, thinking it was just a teenage mistake. I know I’m not alone; many women deal with similar feelings of shame, especially given society’s ridiculous double standards.

Could things have been different if my family had exposed my abuser? Maybe I’m just wired to carry shame. But let’s be clear: I wasn’t meant to live in silence or harbor secrets, and neither should anyone else.

We need to change how we address family abuse. The phrase “make an example of these guys” sounds cliché, but it’s time to stop holding back. Let’s send a bold message: Boys and men, keep your hands to yourself! That girl is a real person. Touching her takes something that can’t be returned. Her silence is NOT consent. She’s just a little girl, not someone to exploit.

To all the girls and women out there: you don’t have to keep this secret. You aren’t obligated to protect your abuser. Speak up. Share your story.

And parents? It’s time to stop allowing this behavior to go unpunished. A little community service isn’t enough to atone for harming a child. Protect the victims, and show them they matter. Remind them they are blameless, no matter how long they kept the secret.

This isn’t just about me; it’s about everyone who has dealt with similar experiences. So, let’s talk about it. Let’s call out the abusers.

By the way, if you want to learn more about home insemination options, check out resources like this article. You can also find expert insights at Make A Mom and Hopkins Medicine.

In summary, we must break the silence surrounding abuse, support those affected, and advocate for change to protect future generations.