Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 3258

Tonight's special guest is Sylvia Goalen from Lawrenceville, Georgia (Atlanta area). She's a survivor of child abuse who's a recipient of the Darkness To Light, Stewards of Children® Voice of Courage award for her contribution to the fight against sexual child abuse. Originally from Guatemala, Sylvia is a member of a large Hispanic family (her mom is one of 21 children). As an immigrant and survivor, she's written an article on the D2L website .. 'A Hispanic Perspective on Abuse'. "I know there is stigma that surrounds sexual abuse; the perspective in Hispanic communities is that we do not share our pain or talk about uncomfortable topics." She continues, "At times I recall the fun memories of being with so many cousins." But she also remembers the first time she experienced sexual abuse. Her cousin took her to the room where her grandmother had died. "As one of the younger cousins I was taught to be submissive, to listen to my elders, to do as I was told. No one questioned that we were alone, especially not me." Because of this experience, as she became a parent she became incredibly cautious about where her children are allowed to go, and with whom, a helicopter parent. Sylvia learned in her recovery that sharing one's issues with someone who is also a survivor makes it easier to disclose. "You feel like you have common issues and you are sharing your story." It's difficult it is to share one's story with someone for the first time, not being sure if one feels safe, without feeling blame or shame.