Written by Isabella Kearns, 16 years old, a junior from Selden, New York, for the World Is A Classroom student essay contest.
My favorite trip was the Bundy Museum of History and Art in New York City. It was an experience that not only deepened my understanding of the impact of sexual violence but also provided me with a sense of reassurance.
The highlight of my visit was the “What Were You Wearing” exhibit, which showcases the stories of rape survivors alongside representations of the clothes they were wearing at the time of the assault. This powerful exhibit had a point to get rid of the claims that clothing choice is a cause of sexual violence.
As I walked through the exhibit, I was struck by the real and emotional stories shared by the survivors. Each outfit on display told a story of pain and strength. Seeing the clothes worn by these survivors at the time of their assault was a strong reminder that no one is ever to blame for the actions of their abuser.
One particular aspect of the exhibit that resonated deeply with me was the realization that I, too, had struggled with feelings of self-blame and guilt following my own experience of sexual assault at the age of 10. The exhibit forced me to confront the lingering question that had haunted me for years, did I look a certain way that made me a target for my abuser? Seeing the diverse range of clothing on display and hearing the survivors’ stories made me realize that sexual violence is never about what someone is wearing but about power and control of the abuser.
Through this eye-opening experience, I learned the invaluable lesson that the responsibility for sexual violence lies solely with the abuser and not with the survivor. I discovered that by sharing their stories and listening to their narratives, survivors can empower themselves and inspire others to speak out against victim-blaming. The exhibit at the Bundy Museum of History and Art served as a key for me to confront my own trauma, challenge harmful beliefs, and advocate for a world where survivors are believed, supported, and empowered.
Overall the impact of my visit to the museum was very significantly powerful. It sparked a sense of courage and strength within me, reminding me that I am not defined by my past experiences but by my strength in overcoming them. I am grateful for the opportunity to have visited such a powerful exhibit and am committed to using my experience to make a difference in the lives of survivors and contribute to a more safer world.
Photo courtesy of bundymuseum.org.
