This was before cell phones or the internet, thank goodness.

Unfortunately I have several stories of sexual harassment, abuse and assault. I was sexualized as a young girl, where people would comment on how cute my figure was, even before puberty, before any development. In Jr. high I was constantly referred to as "the wall" for not having developed larger breasts, by one particular boy. I am sure there were others as well. I will never forget him or his name. On Halloween in his neighborhood he cornered me and sprayed shaving cream up my skirt. I was bullied by two eighth grade girls because I wore high heeled shoes and threatened with beating me up. In 8th grade I went from being popular to being an outcast for becoming friends with a boy who broke up with his girlfriend and began paying attention to me. I had never been kissed. All of my friends turned against me, calling me a slut. I was threatened again with beating me up. I turned to alcohol and drugs, partying. I was assaulted many times while too intoxicated to physically stop what was happening to me or not knowing what I was doing. Photographs were taken while I was held down, too drunk to resist. This was before cell phones or the internet, thank goodness. I attempted suicide twice. I got sober, got help, got better - but this is when I began to remember all the assaults. I didn't even know that is what they were until years later. Now, I am a counselor. We must share our stories with young women, to know they are not alone. We can make a difference in the world and help one another. No one should have to be pushed to end their lives by bullies or perpetrators. Thank you for this project, for your courage and allowing me to share my story. - Kate G.