Sin by Silence Blog

Helping a Teenager Stand Up

Sep 29th, 2009 In: Director's Notes Latest News & Updates Screenings Sin by Silence Tour By: admin Comments 0

Tonight mattered. Tonight we made a difference.  Tonight I was reminded why I made this film.

We were at Central Arizona College, and I never imagined after my 1000th time (it feels like it) watching the film that my emotions would pour again.  At one point during Brenda’s talk after the film, she asked if there were any survivors in the room.  Over half the room raised hands.  Amazing and powerful to see so many people no longer ashamed of their abusive pasts.  Yet, one had in particular stood out to me.  It was a man.  A man that had the courage and felt comfortable enough to let us know that he too was once abused.  It was an amazing reminder to me that domestic violence has no prejudice.  It does not only target certain ages, certain economic class, certain educational levels, certain races….or genders!  Everyone is affected!  That courageous man shared with us what he went through and all I could do was give him a big hug and let him know how much he has inspired me to keep going.

Yet, the tears didn’t stop there.  Towards the end of the presentation we opened the room up for discussion and Q&A.  A mother had brought her 13 year old, stating that we just had to be here.  Her daughter had just broken her silence the night before about a bully at school who was threatening her and beating her up.  This beautiful girl sat there with tears in her eyes and thanked me.  Part of Sin by Silence touched her and reminded her why she must keep letting people know what is going on with her at school.  She had felt alone and had to deal with her teacher not believing her when she finally had the courage to ask for help yesterday.  The whole room exploded into applause to help encourage her for being strong enough to speak up and to help encourage her to remain strong.  Again, all I could do was give this girl a hug!  I can’t imagine what she is going through, but it was such an honor to be part of her journey of empowerment.  That the voices of the women of Convicted Women Against, and my own, could help her.  WOW!

Tonight mattered.