A "#MeToo Movement" for Children: Increasing Awareness of Sexual Violence Against Children.

Abstract

Social movements, such as the “#MeToo movement,” have the potential to foster awareness and inspire policy and advocacy efforts regarding issues that impact physical, mental, and emotional health. News stories surrounding the #MeToo movement have most noticeably been focused on sexual violence against women in entertainment, media, and politics. Nonetheless, the #MeToo movement has led to an increased recognition of and empathy for victims of sexual violence across society.1 The movement started in 2006 when Tarana Burke, a civil rights activist, coined the phrase “#MeToo” as a means of creating solidarity among victims of sexual violence.1 As accusations accumulate throughout Hollywood; Washington, DC; and the world, Burke’s circle of solidarity has been widened substantially. The movement has gained such significance that those at TIME magazine chose the “Silence Breakers” as the 2017 Persons of the Year.1 In the magazine, Burke and those (particularly celebrities) who have courageously disclosed their traumatic experiences and demonstrated support for and solidarity with other victims were highlighted.1 The #MeToo movement has become widespread and potentially transformational; however, there is potential for further progress. As health care providers for children, we hope the movement can be expanded and used to focus attention toward the sexual violence that children, both girls and boys, experience. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, … Address correspondence to Jean L. Raphael, MD, MPH, Texas Children’s Hospital, Clinical Care Center, 6701 Fannin St, Suite 1540, Houston, TX 77030. E-mail: raphael{at}bcm.edu