WINNIPEG – People from around the world are using the hashtag #BeenRapedNeverReported to generate a discussion about a topic that’s rarely talked about, which started in light of the recent Jian Ghomeshi story.
Holly used the hashtag to share her story and says she was also a victim of sexual assault.
“I said no and he asked again a little while later and I said no and he asked again and I said no and then he just kind of got himself in a position and did it,” said Holly.
And according to countless online posts, others feel the same way
“I’ve worked with thousands of women, so many of them hold those stories of sexual assault of them being a victim of rape deep inside them,” said Marlene Bertrand, provisional administrator at Osborne House. “They feel embarrassment, they feel shame, they don’t want to talk about it.”
A social media expert says the hashtag can be a powerful way for victims to voice their stories and for others to show support.
“You see what the topic is, you’re like ok so there are others who share this story and I’m going to lend my voice to that, to give that movement credence,” said Susie Erjavec Parker, owner of SPARKER Strategy Group.
“It’s a difficult crime to prove and I think a lot of victims feel re-victimized, the questions that are asked by police and perhaps once it goes to court again by the lawyers,” said Constable Eric Hofley of the Winnipeg Police Service.
By tweeting today, many hope to change that.
“I really hope it does. I hope that it encourages somebody else to stand up and talk about it,” said Holly.
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