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DETV’s “Every Woman” Tackles Sensitive Topic of Sexual Assault and Consent

 

In a recent episode of DETV’s Every Woman, host Dr. Dawn Sheree Paramore, a licensed mental health therapist, alongside Jill Slader Young, Founder of Safe Haven Inc., and Britney Mumford, Executive Director of DelawareCan, confronted the challenging topic of sexual assault and consent. This conversation, critical not only for women in Delaware but for women across the country, shed light on the urgent need for education and reform in a society still grappling with issues of rape culture and bodily autonomy.

A Difficult Yet Necessary Discussion

The episode began with an important viewer advisory: “The following program contains discussions on sensitive topics, including sexual assault, which may be triggering or distressing for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.” The discussion that followed was intense, informative, and unapologetically candid. Dr. Paramore opened the dialogue by emphasizing the importance of providing secure and safe environments for women and girls, acknowledging that sexual assault is not just a local issue but a national crisis affecting countless women.

 

As the discussion deepened, the panelists explored the nuances of consent, emphasizing that it must be taught from an early age. Consent, as defined by the panel, is more than a sexual concept—it’s about teaching children bodily autonomy, respect, and the power of saying no. Paramore and her guests highlighted the obstacles that survivors face in today’s society, where even the word “rape” is often censored on platforms like Facebook and YouTube.

 

Breaking the Silence on Sexual Assault

The conversation expanded to touch on survivors’ difficulties in speaking out, especially when societal norms and platforms seem to silence their experiences. Britney Mumford, speaking from her own trauma-informed work, emphasized the importance of using anatomically correct names for body parts with children, as it helps empower them to speak up if something inappropriate happens. “For the victim, being able to say what happened is part of the healing process,” she noted.

The episode also explored the societal double standards surrounding sexual behavior, where men’s actions are often excused while women’s bodies and choices are policed. Jill Slader Young highlighted how even elected officials sometimes fail to grasp the severity of sexual assault, recounting instances where lawmakers have made troubling remarks that downplay the importance of consent.

A Call for Education and Reform

Throughout the program, Dr. Paramore and her guests called for better education at every level—starting with children in daycare centers and continuing through legislative reform. “We live in a society where we can’t even talk about the crimes committed against us without being silenced,” Dr. Paramore stated, underscoring the deep-rooted cultural issues that prevent real progress from being made.

The conversation, while difficult, concluded with hope. The panelists urged viewers to educate themselves, know their rights, and support lawmakers who are committed to equity and inclusion. “We have to teach children what mutual respect means, what consent means, and that starts at the very beginning,” said Mumford.

Support and Resources for Survivors

The episode wrapped up by reminding viewers of the resources available for survivors of sexual assault. The National Sexual Assault Hotline, at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), offers confidential support 24/7. Survivors can also visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) at www.rainn.org, where they can access additional support and resources.

By tackling these sensitive subjects head-on, Every Woman continues to fulfill its mission of creating spaces where difficult but necessary conversations can take place—amplifying the voices of women who have been silenced for too long.

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