The Shame of Rape
Breaking the Silence Shame is a powerful force, and few experiences invoke it as deeply and destructively as rape. For survivors of sexual violence, shame can feel like an overwhelming burden, one they are left to carry despite being the victim of an unspeakable violation. This shame, however, is not born from their actions but from the persistent cultural stigmas that surround rape. In many ways, this shame can be as damaging as the physical and emotional trauma itself, lingering long after the assault. The Root of Shame Shame surrounding rape often arises from the false belief that survivors are somehow responsible for what happened to them. Victims are told, both explicitly and implicitly, that they should have fought back harder, avoided dangerous situations, or acted differently. Society frequently places more scrutiny on the survivor’s actions than on the perpetrator’s, leading to a distorted view of accountability. In some cultures, a victim’s “honor” may be considered damag
