Males can be particularly unlikely to report and come forward because victims are thought to be weak, vulnerable, unable to protect themselves and in need of help or assistance. These attributes conflict with many males’ definitions of what it means to be a ‘strong’ man in contemporary society. This is a topic really untouched in my opinion. When a guy is assaulted by a female, male victims may be afraid they will not be believed. And I think we as a society need to reevaluate our own viewpoints surrounding this topic. Because I know for me much of my own beliefs are a result of either media and or my upbringing.And it really wasn’t until I started advocating on behalf of survivors that I realized advocating didn’t pertain only to women but men too. It’s been this un-talked about subject and I think it’s time to learn from this, recognize assault is assault, and rid ourselves of the gender based stigma paired with men victim to sexual assault.

Brenden I’m super thankful you agreed to share your story. Being able to not only hear this ‘story’ but the testimony that God did within your life is incredible. You’re paving the way for others and in turn helping others feel not so alone.

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