Election 2016: The Aftermath
There has been so much public discourse since Trump has been elected. In my line of work, I get to see the private side of what people are experiencing, the things that people do not feel safe discussing in public. Almost every one of my clients have been deeply affected by Trumps election.
I work with women, many who have experienced sexual trauma in their lives. Trump represents what many women have had to endure: sexual innuendo, victim blaming, normalizing sexual harassment, and intimidation.
Imagine the sexual assault victim whose husband is laughing and joking about Trump’s bravado while she feels worthless. Imagine the young rape victim who listens to her father’s defense of Trump’s behaviors at the dinner table while she feels ashamed. Imagine the grown woman who can no longer have spend time with her own mother because her stepfather triggers memories of her sexual assault. I could go on…
All of these women feel small, worthless, shameful, and invalidated. None of them feel safe enough to say anything, to stand up for themselves.
Empowering Women
I want that to change. I want all women to feel safe. I want them to stand up for themselves. I want them to believe…
When you feel like saying no, it is ok to SAY NO.
If someone does not like you, you do not need to change – you are fine the way you are.
You do not have to keep quiet or keep the peace.
It is safe to speak out for what you believe is right or wrong.
Respect yourself.
You have nothing to be ashamed of. You did nothing wrong.
If you do not feel safe, you should reach out for support.
Donald Trump’s Disturbing Statements
Trump is so crass that he made these disturbing statements in the public eye… (Yes I am repeating them, because while everyone else wants to forget, I want us all to remember…)
- “I moved on her like a bitch, but I couldn’t get there. And she was married.”
- “I did try and fuck her. She was married.”
- “Just kiss. I don’t even wait. And when you’re a star, they let you do it. You can do anything.”
- “Grab them by the pussy. You can do anything.”
Standing Up for Ourselves and Women’s Rights
I hope this pisses you off. It is so disturbing. Somehow this man was elected to be our president… It is obviously time for us to stand up for ourselves! These statements and his behaviors are not acceptable! They are wrong! Trump is the one who should feel ashamed, not the women who are being victimized!
Need Support?
If you, or someone you know, has been triggered by this election, please do not sit in silence. If you are angry, frustrated, having problems in your relationships, feeling depressed, or having anxiety since the election – you are not alone. Please reach out for support to someone that feels safe. Reach out to family, friends, or a therapist. You are not in this alone.