National Speak Up for Victims of Sexual Abuse Day

National Speak Up for Victims of Sexual Abuse Day is observed each year on October 18. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the realities faced by survivors of sexual abuse and encouraging society to listen, believe, and support those who choose to speak up. It’s a time to recognize the courage it takes to share such painful truths and to build a culture where survivors feel safe and supported in their healing.

History of the Day

National Speak Up for Victims of Sexual Abuse Day was established in 2021 by Jack Nunnery, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. His goal was to create a space and moment where others who have experienced similar trauma could feel empowered to speak without fear or shame. The day was born from a personal need to break silence—and it now serves as a beacon for others to do the same.

From its creation, the observance has aimed to challenge the silence and stigma surrounding sexual abuse. Survivors often carry their stories alone for years, sometimes decades. This day helps bring attention to those untold stories and encourages collective responsibility—from individuals, communities, and institutions—to listen, support, and advocate for justice and healing.

Why is this Day Important?

Sexual abuse often remains hidden behind closed doors, locked in silence because of fear, shame, or the belief that no one will listen. This day reminds us that speaking up is not just a brave act—it’s a vital one. Survivors deserve to be heard, believed, and supported without judgment. National Speak Up for Victims of Sexual Abuse Day opens the door to these conversations, and to the healing that can follow.

This observance is also a wake-up call for the rest of us. It asks us to think about how we respond when someone opens up, whether we’re creating safe environments, and how we can be part of long-term cultural change. The trauma of abuse doesn’t go away just because time passes. But healing becomes possible when a survivor is met with understanding, compassion, and consistent support.

Here are a few reasons the day matters:

• It encourages survivors to step out of silence on their own terms
• It promotes compassionate, trauma-informed listening
• It fights stigma and challenges victim-blaming narratives
• It urges communities to create safe, supportive environments
• It builds awareness of the lasting impact of abuse and the path to healing

How to Observe Speak Up for Victims of Sexual Abuse Day

You don’t need to organize an event or speak publicly to make a difference. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is listen—really listen—if someone chooses to share their story with you. Let them know you believe them. Avoid pressing for details. Offer support in ways they can choose for themselves, whether that means helping find a therapist, connecting them with a support group, or simply being present.

You can also use the day to educate yourself and others. Learn about the effects of trauma, about consent, or how to create safe spaces for disclosure. Share resources online, support survivor-led initiatives, or advocate for more protections in schools, workplaces, or institutions. Every small gesture adds up to a larger culture of safety and respect.

Some practical ways to observe:

• Practice active listening and respond with belief and compassion
• Share informative content to help raise awareness
• Support organizations that provide services for survivors
• Educate yourself about trauma and safe disclosure practices
• Encourage survivor voices and stories to be shared, if and when they choose

Speak Up for Victims of Sexual Abuse Day Dates Table