Darkened Streets, Darkened Lives

Abstract

This story reflects on a child's experience of sexual abuse which led to trauma that has kept the victim silent, even in the face of further abuse as an adult. The narrator questions the efficacy of law and justice in restoring her innocence. She also worries about the role her silence has played in her experience and her struggle to utilise the tools of law when she chooses silence in the face of abuse. She announces her awakening and intention to use her voice in fighting for herself and others.