#SpeakOut 2025

WHAT IS #SPEAKOUT?

Organized by survivors for survivors, #SpeakOut is a community event that amplifies the voices of survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking. Together, we foster collective healing and spread awareness of how survivors want and need to be supported.

WHY SHOULD I ATTEND?

• For survivors: You are not alone! Connect with and heal alongside other survivors in the community. We're in this together, and this event is about creating safe spaces for survivors to connect and reclaim their stories.

• For allies: We all know someone! Domestic and sexual violence are shadow pandemics that impact each and every one of us. Beyond stigma and stereotypes, learn about what it really means to be a survivor in our community. Take this opportunity to embrace the role you can play to help end domestic violence once and for all.

WILL THIS BE A SAFE SPACE?

We recognize the incredible amount of courage it takes for survivors to speak out. Additionally, we recognize the subject matter of this event may be triggering and upsetting. To support you, the following safeguards will be in place:

• Onsite advocates: We will have trained domestic abuse and sexual violence advocates on site who you can talk to at any time for support.
• Privacy tents: There will be privacy tents open to anyone who needs a moment away from the crowds or to have a private conversation with an advocate.
• Event guidelines: We will distribute guidelines to event attendees that explain how to be supportive of survivor speakers and event rules around respect and privacy.
• Event security: We will have security onsite who can help us remove anyone who does not follow our event guidelines.
• BIPOC and LGBTQ+ : #SpeakOut is a safe space for everyone, including our BIPOC and LGBTQ friends. Domestic abuse impacts all demographics, and it is crucial to elevate the voices of all survivors and be supportive when multiple identities intersect.

ACCESSIBILITY
We are committed to continuously making #SpeakOut more accessible. To support this commitment, we will have:

• ASL interpreters: Ruth Nardecchia and Dawn Riddle will provide real-time ASL interpretation for the Deaf and hard of hearing community.
• Wheelchair accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, including the seating area in front of the stage.

If there is anything we can do to make this event more comfortable or accessible, please don't hesitate to reach us at [email protected].

Host or Publisher FinAbility