My experience with sexual assault is one that I carry with me every day. Just over a year ago, on the 16th of this month, I faced a harrowing encounter with a stranger who took advantage of me. While the details are hazy, I can remember his hair color and ethnicity. However, the emotional aftermath is crystal clear. Questions swirl in my mind: How could this happen? Why me? I’ve fought hard to reclaim my sense of self over the past year, but it has been an uphill battle. As a strong woman who endured an abusive relationship in my youth, I never imagined I would find myself in this situation again. But it happened.
The stranger who assaulted me had no knowledge of who I am—a devoted mother with two little boys waiting for me at home, or an aunt to six nephews and five nieces. He didn’t care about my life, my passions, or the half marathon I was set to run the following morning with my oldest son. His actions stripped away my identity and left me feeling devalued and invisible.
The process that followed—undergoing a rape kit examination, lying on a cold table while a nurse documented the trauma—was a nightmare. I endured months of medical tests and medications to prevent potential infections. Relief washed over me when I received the all-clear, but sleepless nights and suicidal thoughts haunted me. Ultimately, to him, I was just a means to satisfy his selfish desires.
In light of the recent news surrounding certain public figures, I find it increasingly difficult to remain silent. The actions and words of a man vying for the highest office in our country—Donald Trump—have been particularly triggering for many survivors. This isn’t merely a political issue; it speaks to fundamental human decency. This man has a troubling history, including accusations of sexual assault and demeaning comments about women. His association with notorious figures like Jeffrey Epstein only adds to my discomfort.
When does this behavior stop being tolerated? How can we dismiss his misogynistic words as “just words”? Does wealth or celebrity status shield someone from accountability? The narcissistic tendencies I see in him are reminiscent of my own assailant, and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way.
Trump’s recent comments about women evoke feelings of fear and anxiety for many survivors, myself included. Social media is ablaze with passionate voices—some supporting him, and others sharing their own stories of assault. His rhetoric acts as a trigger, reminding us of the trauma we’ve experienced.
This is why I feel compelled to speak out—not just for myself but for all survivors who have been silenced. Remaining quiet only empowers the perpetrators. The silence of those around us can be even more damaging than the assaults themselves.
If you see someone passionately opposing this kind of behavior, I urge you to consider their perspective. You now know part of my story. Don’t label me a hypocrite for enjoying a fictional romance; I know my boundaries. Don’t dismiss me as lost; I am firm in my beliefs. Criticizing those who stand against sexual violence, discrimination, or racism only perpetuates the problem.
Those who claim that Trump’s words are insignificant must reconsider. Such language reflects the mindset of those who perpetrate violence. One in four women experience sexual assault, and it’s time we acknowledge this reality.
Ultimately, the Republican candidate may be wealthy and famous, but his behavior mirrors that of my attacker. I cannot support someone who exhibits such harmful tendencies. I won’t question your reasons for supporting him, but I will see you differently if you choose to ignore the implications of his actions.
I refuse to turn a blind eye. For myself and countless survivors, I will not stay silent. We need to stand up against non-consensual acts, recognize their impact, and work towards a culture that refuses to condone them.
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In summary, we must take a stand against abusive behavior and create a culture of respect and accountability. Let’s be part of the change we want to see.