I am fortunate today because I was able to speak with Vickie Florschuetz, Founder/Artist/Executive Director of The Bravery Project. She is an artist and impassioned about bringing abuse survivor’s stories to the forefront of consciousness. We know that domestic violence exists in multiple forms, but when do we really hear about people who have gotten away from it? Where is the inspiration for those of us deep inside the abusive situation? Where are the facts about what happens to those who make it out (alive)?

The Bravery Project is about revealing the souls of people who were once abused through art and sound. It is about showing the world the kinds of lives PREVIOUSLY abused people live now that they’re free from their confining abuser(s). But maybe most importantly to me, The Bravery Project is about showing those who are currently abused that people just like them do escape abuse and that there is a better life ahead.

I need The Bravery Project’s message right now.

Part of the reason we don’t hear about survivors is that they are ashamed about having been abused. “Why does she stay if it is so bad?” is a diminishing question asked by those who have no understanding of the dynamics of abuse. Yet the thought is implanted in our mind that it is shameful to be abused when the REAL shame is in abusing.

Please visit The Bravery Project and sign up for the newsletter. If you can, please donate and/or volunteer. As Ms. Florschuetz writes, “After all, every survivor has claimed that someone cared enough to help get the resources needed toward permanent freedom. If not you and me, then who?”