|
15min
4
|
The Truth About Silence
This documentary is a true story about sexual assault. It is painfully real. This story will inspire current victims to speak about their tragedy and get help. This story is a must-see for any young woman in our society. 'Don't be afraid to tell your story.' Suffering in silence is far too common among victims of sexual assault. One in five girls will be sexually assaulted before the age of 18, a shocking 88 percent of cases go unreported. Jessie's story is real; it attests to the tragedy that can arise form staying silent. Jessie has sought counseling and support for many years and has discovered the best way to overcome this tragedy. As Jessie remembers her painful past, one thing becomes clear: she regrets the fact that she stayed silent for so many years. Jessie hopes her voice will inspire others to not be afraid to tell their story.This documentary captures the horrifying emotions caused by sexual assault and inspires victims to get help. "The Truth About Silence" film project started as an undergraduate assignment at the University of Richmond, Virginia. The assignment was to create a documentary for social change. As soon as the story began to reveal itself, it became apparent that this story is essential for every young female to see. The tragedy of sexual assault is not something that should be avoided. Jessie, a senior at the University of Richmond feels it is her obligation to tell her story, barring nothing. In "The Truth About Silence" Jessie lays every tragic detail of her childhood out for everyone to see. She has learned that hiding her tragedy was one of the worst things that she could have done. In her experience, her silence led to the rape, and brutal assault of her mother, by her own brother. This real life Oedipal tragedy is an example of what happens when sexual assault is not dealt with correctly. Jessie is determined to tell her story in hopes of inspiring others. She is currently president of Stealing Home, the University of Richmond’s “Sexual Assault Awareness & Peer Education Organization.” She is also an emergency respondent to victims of sexual assault. Jessie’s confidence and honesty is compelling. Previous distinctions include screenings at the Artivist International Film Festival held in Hollywood California, London England, Lisbon Portugal, and also at Georgetown University and the University of Richmond Virginia.
|
