what is reclaim your voice?
Reclaim Your Voice is a survivor-led grassroots organization founded in 2012 which creates safe spaces for stories of abuse and sexual violence to be shared. Combining raw testimonials with inspirational spoken word pieces and motivational speeches, Reclaim Your Voice is an experience that helps to connect and empower the survivor community.
What happens at a reclaim your voice event?
At each Reclaim Your Voice event, three people are given the opportunity to share their stories before everyone present in the room. Spoken word poetry is shared as well, because creative expression is a great way to process pain. Some people who are not ready to share their stories yet find empowerment in sharing their experiences through poetry. Finally, there is a group exercise which focuses either on skills building (ie. how to have courageous conversations) or creative exercises for the purpose of self expression and reflection.
if i attend a reclaim your voice event DO I HAVE TO SHARE MY STORY?
You do not have to share anything you don’t want to at a Reclaim Your Voice event. You can attend to simply listen. There are moments throughout the event where we open the floor up so that anyone who wishes to share their thoughts can do so, but everyone is given the option to choose not to share. Reclaiming our autonomy is an important part of healing from abuse, and in our space we honour your right to choose whether or not you’d like to share. If you are interested in sharing your poetry or your story at one of our events, please contact us.
who can attend a reclaim your voice event?
Our events are open to anyone age 18+ who would like to be present in the name of peace and healing for all. Most people who attend our events have experienced abuse or sexual violence, but many people also attend to support loved ones, or because they care about this cause and want to listen and learn more. Children are not allowed at our events due to the nature of the topics discussed.
Are the events photographed?
All images captured at our events are done so with consent. We do not take pictures of videos of anyone without permission. Our early events were documented to give people an idea of what to expect, but we no longer do so in order to maintain a safe and confidential space. If our speakers and poets give us consent, we may film or photograph them while they are sharing. At the end of the event, we take a group picture with any participants who choose to be in it. We honour everyone’s decision not to be filmed or photographed.
how much does it cost to attend?
Reclaim Your Voice events are free to attend.
Can i bring someone with me?
Yes, you may absolutely bring loved ones with you to a Reclaim Your Voice event.
what do i do if i have a question that’s not listed here?
Please feel free to get in touch with us.