Guys Raise Awareness About Sexual Assault Against Men By Sharing Their Stories

Credit: Project Unbreakable

Though most people imagine violence against women when the term “sexual assault” is uttered, the truth is, men and boys can be victims, as well. In fact, it’s estimated that 3% of males in the United States are victims of sexual assault.

The psychological effects of being raped are very similar for both sexes. Anxiety, depression, fearfulness, or post-traumatic stress disorder often accompany the experience. And for men especially, the ordeal can be hard to talk about due to the pressures society places on males to hold in their emotions and show no weaknesses.

Fortunately, a handful of brave activists have shared their stories in the series which follows to inspire conversation on the topic. Each picture is part of ‘Project Unbreakable’, a website set up in 2011 by Grace Brown. The New York photography student wanted to help raise awareness about sexual assault by giving voices to those who have been victims of it.

In each image, men hold posters with quotes from their attackers. Reportedly, many of those who volunteered to be part of the project experienced sexual assault, child abuse, or domestic violence themselves.

As Bored Panda relays, the website closed down in 2015 due to the present political climate. Photos are still being posted to the project’s Instagram page, however. Grace explained: 

“In light of our current political climate – the fact that a man accused of multiple instances of sexual assault is about to be the president of the USA – I have decided to repost images from Unbreakable on its Instagram account. We won’t stay silent – not for the oppressed, not for the marginalized, not for anyone.”

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