‘We all know an abuser, but choose to protect them’ – Sexual abuse survivor
A survivor of sexual abuse has accused society of turning a blind eye to perpetrators, saying people often protect those they know or respect while questioning the experiences of victims.
Sexual abuse survivor Amtu Akumfi-Ameyaw has criticized society for overlooking perpetrators and instead shielding those they know or respect. In her view, defending alleged abusers and dismissing victims' claims contributes to survivors feeling guilt and distress. Referring to recent allegations at Obuasi Senior High Technical School, she highlighted that people often deny knowing abusers, even when they are family or friends, in an effort to protect their relationships.
Akumfi-Ameyaw also pointed out that this tendency can lead to trivialising sexual abuse when it involves respected individuals. She emphasized the need to educate boys and men on respect and boundaries, alongside educating girls, to combat sexual abuse more effectively.
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