Charleston Community Unites to Combat Sexual Assault and Support Survivors

Charleston Takes a Stand Against Sexual Assault

Charleston is a vibrant city filled with rich history, culture, and community. Yet, lurking beneath its charming facade is a harsh reality that many residents refuse to overlook. The issue of sexual assault has loomed large over Charleston for decades, affecting countless lives every day. It’s a difficult subject, but one that needs to be addressed with honesty and compassion.

The Reality of Sexual Assault in Our Community

According to Deborah Freel, the executive director of TriCounty S.P.E.A.K.S., the message is clear: “This is happening in our community everywhere, everyday, to everyone.” Freel, whose organization has been at the forefront of advocacy and support for survivors for 50 years, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the broader implications of sexual assault. It’s not just an individual problem; it’s a societal issue that affects us all.

Freel points out that there’s a troubling pattern in how sexual assault is defined and reported. There are many forms it can take, from inappropriate touching to more violent incidents, and each case can feel different depending on the person experiencing it. Unfortunately, the reality is that many incidents go unreported. “It is underreported, underfunded, and underrecognized,” Freel stressed.

Understanding the Numbers

Across the nation, sexual assault remains a pressing danger. Data shows that in America, someone is sexually assaulted every **68 seconds**. These statistics reveal a chilling truth: one in six American women and one in 33 American men will face unwanted advances or attacks in their lifetime. Here in South Carolina, the statistics mirror these disturbing trends: last year, over 3,500 individuals sought help from rape crisis centers throughout the state. A staggering 92% of survivors, sadly, knew their assailants, and only 12% reported the incidents to law enforcement.

In Charleston specifically, TriCounty S.P.E.A.K.S. has been actively helping survivors. In the past year alone, they answered 1,428 calls on their 24/7 crisis hotline, providing essential services like counseling, support, and resources to those in need.

The Invisible Problem

The maps detailing nearly 30 sexual assault incidents investigated over the past year only tell part of the story. Freel and others in the community know the truth: the number of unreported cases is likely much higher. It’s challenging to capture the full scope of sexual assault, and that’s where the community can play a significant role.

Charleston Police Department spokesman Chris Stinson talks about a new transparency initiative aimed at helping individuals come forward more easily. “Our goal was to provide the public with greater access to information and create more accessible means for survivors to share their experiences,” he says. By sharing detailed data and mapping it visually, the hope is to encourage survivors to reach out for help.

The Heart of the Matter

The ongoing struggle against sexual assault starts with understanding that it is interconnected with the very fabric of society. Freel is adamant that addressing the trauma caused by sexual assault is essential for the greater good. “The impact isn’t limited to survivors,” she explains, highlighting that trauma can ripple through communities, affecting everyone in some way.

TriCounty S.P.E.A.K.S. has continuously adapted to serve those impacted by sexual assault. Their dedication extends beyond immediate support to developing legislation that enhances trauma responses in sexual assault cases. Even with its new name, which reflects its expanded service area in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties, the mission to provide free, essential support remains unchanged.

A Collective Call to Action

Freel encourages everyone to recognize the shared responsibility of addressing this issue. “Communities are not vacuums. Their problems are dispersed. Their needs are shared,” she states passionately. It’s crucial to understand one person’s trauma and how it relates to the well-being of the entire community.

50 Years of Advocacy

As they mark a remarkable milestone of 50 years, TriCounty S.P.E.A.K.S. will hold a fundraising gala to celebrate its achievements and gather support for future initiatives. Community members are encouraged to participate and recognize that, together, we can work towards ending sexual assault and providing a brighter future for everyone.

Charleston faces a challenging road ahead, but with understanding, support, and action, the community can come together to make a change. Let’s stand firm against sexual assault and work towards a safer environment for all.