More Than A Survivor: Rape, Activism and what comes next with Sarah Super
Mar 19, 2024
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In this insightful discussion, Sarah Super, an activist who transformed her trauma into a mission for survivors of sexual violence, reflects on her journey. She shares her experiences with the legal system and the emotional hurdles of healing. The conversation delves into the burdens of activism, balancing personal recovery while advocating for change. Sarah also highlights her journey of self-discovery, revealing how she embraces her identity beyond being a survivor and the significance of community support in the healing process.
Sarah Super highlights the necessity of community support and empathy for survivors of sexual violence to aid in their recovery.
Through her organization Break the Silence, Sarah has created platforms that empower survivors to share their stories, fostering validation and connection.
Deep dives
Sarah Super's Journey and Survival
Sarah Super recounts her harrowing experience of surviving a violent sexual assault in 2015, where she was attacked by her ex-boyfriend after returning home from a trip. The assault not only left her physically harmed but also thrust her into a legal system that often silences and shames victims. Despite this trauma, Sarah emerged as a voice for survivors, breaking the silence surrounding sexual violence and creating a platform for others to share their stories. Her journey transformed her from a victim into an advocate, inspiring many others to confront their experiences of violence.
The Need for Genuine Support
Sarah emphasizes that recovering from sexual trauma requires more than just self-care practices; it necessitates building trust and community support. She critiques the myth that self-care alone can heal trauma, highlighting the importance of genuine human connection in recovery. The podcast discusses how many survivors face isolation and a lack of understanding from their communities, which can hinder healing. Sarah insists that it is essential for friends and family to show empathy, validate experiences, and actively participate in creating a supportive environment.
Creating Safe Spaces for Survivors
To empower survivors, Sarah founded an organization called Break the Silence, which organized events where individuals could share their stories in a supportive environment. These gatherings, described as calm and heartbreakingly full, allowed survivors to stand up and speak openly about their experiences without fear of judgment or silence. The events were met with affirmations of strength and courage, reinforcing that no one should face their trauma alone. Sarah's work aimed to create a cultural shift where victims feel safe to share their stories and receive validation.
Balancing Activism and Self-Care
After years of dedication to her advocacy work, Sarah shares the challenges of managing her role as a leader in the survivor community while processing her own trauma. She reflects on how her commitment to supporting others often overshadowed her own need for self-care, leading to physical and emotional exhaustion. Sarah discusses stepping back from her organization to reclaim her life and focus on her personal well-being, emphasizing that healing is a non-linear journey. This transition allows her to explore new dimensions of her identity beyond being a survivor, honoring both her past and her future aspirations.
In 2015, Sarah Super was raped by her ex-boyfriend Alex Neal. And she channeled that act of violence into a mission-driven organization that helped survivors of sexual violence feel seen and heard. 9 years after the night that changed her life, Sarah reflects on what it means to move forward with her life and to reclaim her identity as more than a survivor. Sarah was a guest on the first season of our podcast.
To hear Sarah's original episode, Unbroken, click here.
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