Each month, RAINN features a member of its National Leadership Council (NLC). The NLC is a group of dedicated individuals who have shown their commitment to RAINN’s mission of supporting survivors and ending sexual violence. This month we checked in with supporter, Ashna Chopra. 

Why are you passionate about ending sexual violence?

This is something that is so common but hardly talked about. A lot of people who are sexually abused don’t come forward to share this—I know, as I was one of them. It took me 28 years before I could share my story. We have to learn not to be ashamed and not to carry this guilt. It’s not ours to carry.

How can we all be better supporters and advocates for survivors in our lives?

Be good listeners, ask questions, and don’t doubt the person sharing their story—even if it took them a long time to share it.

What is your message to survivors?

This is only the beginning. This is not an event that defines you, but you can define what you want to do with your story and how to speak about this openly. Be the voice for others that have not had the chance to speak about the abuse they experienced yet.