Growing up, I had teachers that I loved. They taught me great lessons, both academically and in life. I had teachers who inspired learning, creativity and growth. I still carry those lessons with me to this day. I think that’s why it is so very difficult for me to read the news stories about teachers committing sexual violence against students. As a community member, I am disgusted. As a parent raising my own kids, I am scared. As a professional working to end sexual violence, there are three things I want people to know.

First, I want people to know that the vast majority of people in this world will never commit sexual violence. It is a crime that most of us agree should never happen. A small minority commit most of this violence and abuse. Believe me when I say that they commit a lot of it. In any given classroom of 25 children, five will experience sexual abuse before they turn 18. The stakes are real, but there is good news. This also means that if the majority of us work together and make a commitment to end violence, we will win this fight. If you’re not sure how to identify signs of sexual abuse, grooming behaviors or what to do to stop them, SARCC can help. Bring a Parents in the Know Training to your church, school or community group. The training is free, and your kids deserve it.

Second, I want people to know how important it is to listen to and believe survivors. It takes unbelievable courage to talk about an experience of sexual violence. People who commit it use shame, guilt, threats, coercion and manipulation to try to keep survivors from talking about it. Imagine the pain you could cause if someone overcomes all of this, only to have their brave story discounted, questioned or swept aside. If a child you know tells you about sexual abuse, thank them for telling you, listen carefully and take action to help secure their safety. Any community member can report suspected abuse to ChildLine 800-932-0313. If you’re not sure what to do, you can call the SARCC Support Line at 570-628-2965 and a trained counselor can talk you through your options.

Finally, I want people to know that sexual violence is preventable. If you’re not sure how to identify signs of sexual abuse, grooming behaviors, or what to do to stop them, please know that SARCC can help. Bring a Parents in the Know Training to your church, school or community group. The training is free, and your kids deserve it. If you’re another professional, request a Mandated Reporter Training and learn the signs of abuse, the long-term impacts, and when you are empowered to make a report on behalf of a child’s safety. We all have a role to play in the prevention of child sexual abuse, and I for one am tired of being sickened by the headlines. Children deserve to be safe. Is that so much to ask?

Ali Mailen Perrotto

SARCC of Lebanon and Schuylkill Counties