We Can Do Hard Things 34. UNBOUND with Tarana Burke—Part 1
Oct 12, 2021
In a compelling conversation, Tarana Burke, the activist behind the 'me too.' movement, shares her journey in fighting sexual violence and advocating for racial justice. She reveals how societal pressures forced her to embody the 'good girl' role, while also discussing the dual struggles of protecting her community and silencing her own pain. Tarana reflects on the transformative impact of Maya Angelou's work, her personal experiences with trauma, and how dance became a vital outlet for her healing and self-exploration.
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The Burden of Secrecy
- Tarana Burke describes feeling like she was constantly living with a secret after being abused as a child.
- She was terrified of being found out, which led to anxiety and performing the role of a "good girl."
The Double Standard of Rules
- Unspoken and spoken rules, especially for girls, can lead them to internalize blame for abuse.
- Adults often fail to clarify that breaking certain rules, like those related to personal safety, is never the child's fault.
The Protective Silence
- Tarana Burke recalls a moment where she considered sharing her experience but chose silence to protect her father.
- She highlights the double bind faced by many Black and brown girls: their community's protection silences them.
