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Keeping Our Healing Practices Survivor-centered
Healing from trauma looks different for every survivor. At Joyful Heart, our healing programs are based on honoring each survivor’s journey.
Our Perspective: Texas Rape Kit Reform Paves Way for Justice for Survivors
In June 2017, Texas became the first state in the nation to enact all of Joyful Heart’s six legislative pillars of comprehensive rape kit reform. We asked Ilse Knecht, Joyful Heart’s Director of Policy & Advocacy, what this legislative victory means for our work. Watch a video of her conversation with Christine Show, Digital Platforms Manager.
A Closed Chapter
My adult self had already processed and come to accept the fact that mother was never going to make amends to me or change. On the other hand, my inner child was sad and upset. My inner child was still hoping that my mother would sit down and talk with me, tell me she loved me, and was sorry for the abuse she both allowed and inflicted on me. Now that will never happen, and my inner child will have a bit more healing to do.
Redefining Forgiveness
Many believe it is not necessary to forgive the person who hurt you, in order to heal.
Reflections on Wednesday Night’s SVU, the Stanford Case, and My Own Pursuit of Justice after Sexual Abuse
Cases like this—and all that they represent—hit home for me in many ways. They touch me deeply as someone who has been immersed in these issues all of my life, as a survivor working to heal every day from the trauma of sexual violence, and as an advocate for my entire career.
Three Lessons in the Meaning of Community
On Wednesday, October 5th, I flew over the beautiful, rugged landscape of western New Mexico, bound for Phoenix.
#SupportSurvivors DVAM Campaign
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Follow us as we share information about the issue, how to support a survivor, and ways to get involved.
Caring for yourself or supporting someone else
Over the past several days, we have heard and read many hurtful, disrespectful statements about sexual assault. People all over the country are speaking out and standing up to say ENOUGH to the beliefs and attitudes that misplace blame on survivors, excuse perpetrators, and allow institutions to look the other way.
Self-Acceptance
One of the affects of my abuse that has followed me into my adult life until just recently is being accepted.
