Ascend: a zine for teen survivors of sexual assault and their friends
The purpose of this zine is
(1) To support you, young people who are survivors of sexual assault, as you search for resources, understanding, and a path toward healing. You are not alone. You are not to blame. You are not broken. you are not too much. If you do not know who to go to right now, this zine gives you some ideas of where you can go for understanding and support.
(2) To guide you, the friends of young people who are survivors of sexual assault, as you learn the basics of how to care for someone who is hurt while also making sure that they are staying healthy. Victims of sexual assault are more likely to go to a class friend for help before they go to law enforcement, counselors, adults, and people in authority. Thank your for being that friend. Thank you for being safe. You are an important part of the healing process.
Zines (pronounced “zeen”) have been used for a long time to give a voice and expression to survivors and those without power. Because they are usually self-published on a photocopier, they are a way for marginalized populations who usually are not presented by media to create their own media to inspire, educate, and start a movement. Several of the references in this zine are other zines that have been written by survivors of sexual assault.
This zine includes the voices and feedback of many diverse individuals. However, time, funds, and perspectives are not infinite. So, you will likely read parts of this zine that are not a perfect fit. You may find that it does not use the words you would have used or the words you needed to hear. We apologize for when that happens.