A morning tea will be held in Sunbury to mark National Survivors Day.
The event, hosted by Just4Causes, will be held in recognition of all adult survivors of sexual and physical abuse.
Just4Causes founder Tracie M Oldham encouraged the community to come, connect and network at the morning tea.
“I want to get people talking about sexual abuse because it is still such a taboo topic,” she said.
Ms Oldham said she hopes to get many local organisations involved as well, to provide an opportunity for survivors to connect and network.
She said she started her charity alongside her son to spread awareness and support many causes.
“I myself am a victim of both (physical and sexual abuse),” she said.
“I’ve been a lived experience survivor advocate since 1986.
“That’s 38 years of my life spent advocating for the rights of everyone who’s been wrongfully denied justice, including myself.”
Ms Oldham said this event, and her charity, aims to highlight those who have been silenced and are afraid to speak up.
“The experience of sexual assault can be quite traumatic. Speaking with others about a sexual assault takes courage; many choose to keep quiet because they are made to feel ashamed,” she said.
“I advocate for survivors because I know what it is like to be silenced.”
The National Survivors Day Morning Tea will be held at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre from 10.30am to 3pm on Wednesday 12 November.
Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1143876564537890/?active_tab=about
