#USA #sexual abuse #Woodside #WeRideTogether #PSA series

WeRideTogether's Latest PSA Initiative: "Out of Bounds"

In a courageous effort to tackle the difficult and often stigmatized topic of sexual abuse within sports, #WeRideTogether has launched a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) series titled "Out of Bounds." This initiative seeks to illuminate the experiences of victims and foster empathy and understanding in society.

Understanding the Series

The "Out of Bounds" series comprises four poignant PSAs, each crafted to spotlight different facets of a survivor's journey. These include deeply personal narratives that explore the often overlooked challenges faced by victims. The titles of the PSAs—"Stop Asking," "It's Not Just a Ride Home," "Life Sentence," and "W.T.F.—Wait, That's Fair?"—effectively encapsulate the complex emotions and realities survivors navigate in educational, athletic, judicial, and social environments.

Through these compelling narratives, #WeRideTogether invites viewers to walk alongside survivors, experiencing the shame and blame they often endure. By fostering a sense of connection, the series aims to promote dialogue and support for survivors, ultimately contributing to a healthier environment in sports and beyond.

The Importance of Awareness

Carrie Kehring, the president and founder of #WeRideTogether, eloquently emphasizes the significance of this initiative: "Highlighting the experiences of victims of sexual abuse...creates empathy and understanding which promotes survivor support, helps to eliminate the stigma surrounding survivorship, and makes sport safer and healthier for the next generation of athletes." This perspective is crucial in changing the societal narrative surrounding sexual abuse and ensuring that survivors feel seen and validated in their experiences.

Expert Insights

To complement the emotional narratives presented in the PSAs, #WeRideTogether has also organized four long-form roundtable discussions featuring experts in abuse prevention and survivor support. These discussions involve prominent figures such as Kenyora Johnson (CEO of End Rape on Campus), Tracy DeTomasi (CEO of Callisto), and Margaret Hoelzer (Olympic medalist), who provide insights on fostering healthy environments in sports and supporting survivors in their healing journeys.

The discussions delve into crucial topics such as justice options for survivors and the importance of advocating for systemic changes within sporting organizations. By equipping athletes, coaches, and community members with knowledge and tools for prevention, these discussions aim to establish a culture of safety and respect in sports.

A Call to Action

WeRideTogether encourages athletes from all disciplines to share their stories or articulate what healthy sports practices mean to them. This invitation extends beyond mere participation; it embodies the organization’s commitment to creating an inclusive space for dialogue surrounding sexual misconduct in sports. As Kehring notes, “In creating and releasing this series of PSAs and roundtables, we aim to make survivors feel seen and heard, promote understanding, and create the radical change needed to eliminate sexual abuse in and out of athletics.”

Conclusion

The "Out of Bounds" series by #WeRideTogether is more than just a collection of videos; it is a movement towards fostering understanding, transparency, and hope for survivors of sexual abuse. By raising awareness about the real experiences of victims and engaging in discussions on prevention and support, this initiative is paving the way for a safer future in sports and promoting healthy environments for all athletes. To learn more and access the series, visit www.WeRideTogether.today.