Expose the Sexual Predators
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As I listen to the continuing media coverage of the Jeffery Epstein Files, I am recalling my own experiences around violence against women and growing up female. I came of age in the 1970’s and was greatly influenced by the women’s movement, along with the other social movements of the 60’s and 70’s. I began to realize how often my thoughts were dismissed and my voice was not heard. I began to make the connection that because I am female, what I think and what I say was not valued.
As I studied and developed my understanding of the social work profession, I became more aware of social injustices and the power differentials in society. I learned through study and experience how those in power can choose to use their power to hurt, abuse and manipulate vulnerable people and groups. Some of my greatest teachers were women colleagues and more importantly women clients.
The agency where I worked for 22 years provided critical services to victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. I witnessed the incredible work of advocates, educators, volunteers and clinicians as we facilitated the transformation of people’s lives from exploitation to safety and empowerment. The people who worked the hardest and risked the most were the victims who became survivors. Their courage still amazes me.
Today I am painfully aware of how the abuse of vulnerable young women by powerful men and woman is still very much a part of our world. Why are the women victimized by Jeffery Epstein and Ghislane Maxwell not celebrated as the survivors that they are? I have so much respect for these women as they speak truth to power. I am saddened by, and angry with, those in power who choose to abuse, deny or look the other way. I am dismayed by those who do not recognize the harm that has been done and to hold those in power accountable.
I know that women are strong, capable and valuable. I know we are often not seen or treated this way and how that affects our lives. I have seen positive change in attitudes towards women and vulnerable populations over the years. I have also witnessed the ongoing attacks to keep us in “our place” of vulnerability and take our power away.
My hope lies in the voices and actions of the people, especially the young women and men who speak out against violence and oppression, who work to change attitudes and perceptions and who support the survivors of abuse.
Dotti Barraco Hetnar
Pronouns: She, Her, Hers
Social worker and social justice activist
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