For the last four years, I’ve held space as a circle keeper for survivors of child sexual abuse. What started as community work turned into a truth-telling journey of my own. I learned to name that the people who harmed me came from every direction — not just family, but trusted adults. A pastor. A hospital security officer while I was there for asthma. This is why I say clearly: Child sexual abuse is not about a child being in the wrong place. It is about an adult choosing the child, the timing, and the opportunity. Sick and vulnerable children are often targeted. By age 15, thirteen people had sexually abused me which included a pastor and a hospital security officer when I was admitted for asthma. At 16, I was sexually assaulted by my ex-boyfriend’s uncle. There was nothing sweet about 16, for me. And still, I stand. Listen at my original poem created at the “Typewriter Rodeo Museum, 2025.” You can watch it here: youtube.com/shorts/fZJNNQEUovw

Still, I create.

View it here

Still, I witness what happens when survivors have space, tools, and creative freedom. My work has been recognized:

• Hidden Water’s January 2024 Newsletter
• A second signature piece juried into City Hall
• Live performances of my poetry
• A three-day creativity and legacy workshop I designed and led Your support fuels this work.

It strengthens my healing and ensures I can continue building spaces where survivors — especially those who were never believed, never protected, and never acknowledged can breathe and be held. Thank you for giving