Reclaiming Me, Local Nonprofit

I’m an advocate, educator and survivor of intimate partner violence (IPV). When I became heavily involved in the nonprofit world fighting to give a voice to those who had been silenced, I was going through my own struggles. For about 4 years of my life, from October 31, 2011 to January 1, 2015 I was involved in two different abusive relationships. I experienced sexual, physical, verbal and emotional abuse.

For those 4 years, I struggled trying to understand what was going on. The abuse I experienced wasn’t like what I saw in the movies. I wasn’t attacked by a stranger in the parking garage, I wasn’t struggling and fighting back the scary man in the bushes. I was hurt, I was abused, I was coerced by the person who was supposed to love, respect and care for me.

I’ve come to see the holes in our education about IPV through my own experiences and how hard nonprofits work to break those myths and misconceptions. My journey in life has lead me down difficult roads, but I am stronger because of it. I am not a victim, I am a fighter and I always will be.

That is why I share my story, to put a face to the terrifying, confusing, misunderstood, difficult issues, to break the myths and to tell others that it CAN get better.

I’ve also begun a photo series for survivors of power based violence. I strive to capture survivors showcasing their power, strength and beauty providing a place to share their story focusing on the after affects of trauma, an aspect that is so rarely talked about. You can learn more about my photo series at my blog www.reclaimingmeblog.wordpress.com.

Questions or need a speaker? Email me at reclaimingme1@gmail.com