If you have experienced sexual assault, we strongly encourage you to take our Speak Up Challenge and share your experience with someone you trust.  There's evidence that sharing your story helps reduce shame, supports a healthy sense of self, and reduces emotional triggers.  

You can take care of yourself and engage in this challenge in several ways. 

1. Identify a safe person in your life, could be a parent, a teacher, a pastor, or a friend.  Ask that person if you can share your story. 

2. Make an appointment with George Fox's counseling services and let them know you're taking part in the Speak Up Challenge. 

3. Make an appointment with George Fox's Spiritual Life department and let them know you're taking part in the Speak Up Challenge. 

4. Make an appointment with Crystal McGowen, the Assistant Director of Inclusive Excellence and the Title IX Campus Host. 

How do I share my story? 

• You decide what you share. You don't have to share ALL the details.  Ask yourself these discernment questions: 

  • Do I want to share this detail or part of the story? 

  • Can the person I'm sharing with handle this detail well? (or will it trigger them?)

  • What do I want this person to know? 

    • You can share everything, or you might want to start with the basics and let someone know that you've experienced sexual assault. You can simply say, "I don't want to go into details right now, but something bad happened (or I was sexually assaulted) and I just want you to know." 

• Know your boundaries. The person you share with might start asking alot of questions. You can answer them if you want to, but you can also say, "I don't think I want to get into this righ now." That's ok. Never feel pressured to share more than you feel comfortable to say.  

• You don't have to name names, or titles, or specify relationships. You can edit your story to a version that feels safe to share in this moment. 

• Remind your trusted person that you're expecting them to keep your story confidential unless you give them permission to share. 

What if someone wants to share a story of sexual assault with me?  (tips on being a safe person)

You might feel overwhelmed if someone you care about wants to share something difficult.  But, we want to assure you, you are already fully equipped to be the safe and supportive person they need. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind: 

• Don't feel like you have to solve the problem or come up with solutions. What your friend needs first and foremost is for you to listen to them and to see them in their pain. 

• Don't feel like you have to say something eloquent or profound in response to their story. You can simply say things like: 

  • "Thank you so much for telling me. I feel honored that you trust me with your story."

  • "I'm so sorry you've gone through this. Is there anything else you want me to know?" 

  • "You are very brave for sharing with me. Thank you. What do you need from me? How can I help you?"

• If you feel burdened by the story you hear, consider reaching out to Spiritual Life or George Fox Counseling Services for extra support.