Movement against sexual violence successfully created international conversation
2017 marked the beginning of a new era in women’s empowerment. Fuelled by the unprecedented global reach of social media platforms and the unflinching honesty of victims from all walks of life, the #MeToo movement has now become a far-reaching cultural phenomenon against sexual violence — and it has yet to show signs of slowing.
The movement, founded in 2006 by African-American civil rights activist Tarana Burke, seeks to connect a diverse community of sexual assault survivors by “bringing vital conversations about sexual violence into the mainstream” and “disrupting all systems that allow sexual violence to flourish,” the MeToo website reads.
Although Burke’s movement originally targeted those in low-income communities, it first gained international prominence through the involvement of celebrities — reported by The Guardian to have started with actress Alyssa Milano — who began sharing their stories on Twitter with the hashtag MeToo.
Since then, millions of people around the world have joined the conversation about sexual violence. Abusers from the highest echelons of society — most notably former film producer Harvey Weinstein, and recently, CBS executive Leslie Moonves — have been exposed and shamed as stories continue to surface, many of which date back decades.
Here on the U of G campus and in Guelph, a number of services exist to help support victims of sexual violence and promote an environment of safety and respect. Some of these efforts are detailed below.
SafeWalk is an initiative run by the Central Student Association (CSA) that provides volunteers who escort students across campus after dark, so they don’t have to walk alone. It is available every night from 7:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. To contact a volunteer, simply phone 519-824-4120 x54845, or press the talk button on one of the emergency poles found on campus.
The SafeGryphon App is available to download in partnership with the Campus Community Police and includes features such as a click-to-call button for quick communication with emergency services and a personal alarm to draw attention if needed.
Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis is an organization that provides shelters and support programs for victims of abuse. A 24-hour crisis line can be reached at 519-836-5710 or 1-800-265-SAFE (7233).
Photo Courtesy of Alora Griffiths/ The Ontarion