An Open Letter to Daisy Coleman

Dear Daisy,

I read about what you went through on Sunday night and I am writing to offer you my full support.

I don’t know you personally, but I know a few things about you: You are brave. You are not alone. And you can overcome this struggle. I know these things not just because of what I have read about your story from various news sources, but because of my own experience and the experiences other women have shared with me. I created The UnSlut Project for you.

What I went through as a target of sexual bullying was not nearly as traumatizing as your experience as a rape victim. But still it took me over a decade to make the decision to share my diary entries from that time. You, on the other hand, had the strength to come forward with your story when you were still surrounded by your tormenters, putting yourself at risk for the sake of speaking up and reaching other girls who are going through something similar.

There is no way for you to ever know how many other victims you have helped with your bravery. But now, when you’re feeling overwhelmed, when the struggle you face seems insurmountable, I want to tell you: You are not alone. I hope you find comfort in knowing that so many other girls and women have suffered the way you are right now and we have survived. Not only have we survived, we are happy. We are fulfilled in love, in our families, in our careers – in all the many facets of our lives. And you will be, too.

You have been such a source of inspiration and strength for so many people. Let us support you now. Let us serve as a reminder of your own strength, if you ever doubt it again.

Love,

Emily Lindin
Founder of The UnSlut Project

Read more about Daisy Coleman's ordeal here.