Safe Space Day, April 15, is a day to recognize and celebrate the resilience of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and incest. It was created in Ankeny, Iowa as a Talking Trees, Inc initiative in 2010. Every April 15, survivors around the world are encouraged to hold or attend a public event which recognizes and addresses healing issues and celebrate how far they have come on the healing path.
Having a day for adult survivors is a statement about our willingness to live openly. We know the freedom that comes when we let go of the fear of our experience and honor the capacity of our strength. We celebrate our choice to stop hiding, running away and avoiding. We stand with other survivors who are walking in their truth when we celebrate face-to-face.
Talking Trees, Inc. has sponsored a Safe Space Day every year since 2010. The types of events have varied each year, but have included workshops, full-day conference, a theatrical production, musical performance and survivors’ only talk sessions. Except for the survivors’ talk session, all events are open to the public in order to raise awareness of adult survivors. Having public events also works as an important outreach for survivors who are still struggling in isolation and have not yet identified as a survivor.
Some Talking Trees, Inc. members make arrangements to fellowship before and after the main event, especially since many of them only see each other during this time because they come from all over the United States. Members may also volunteer to help out at the event. There is no required identification of survivors at Safe Space Day. Since professionals, supporters, and community members are invited to celebrate with us, attending an event does not identify anyone as a survivor. If survivors choose to identify themselves, they can do so in their own way.
We would love to see you at the 2018 Safe Space Day in Colorado Springs, CO. Check this website for updates.