“I’m so deeply disturbed and saddened by all the DMs I’ve received today about family members molesting and raping children,” wrote Jessi. “My heart hurts over all this.”
Though the overwhelming majority of the DMs related woeful narratives, some were more lighthearted.
And even cathartic.
Not everybody chose to remain anonymous. Hundreds of users openly tweeted out their own family secrets in response to Jessi’s question.
As one Twitter user poignantly noted, Jessi’s thread is “FULL of rape cover-up stories,” which is exactly why it’s so important that women are speaking up for themselves. The more women’s voices are heard, the less women will fear using them.
If you or anyone you know is suffering from sexual assault of any kind, do not hesitate to seek help. Call 800.656.HOPE (4673) to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area.