West MI Man shares story of surviving child sexual assault for ‘Wear Blue Day’

West MI Man shares story of surviving child sexual assault for 'Wear Blue Day'  WZZM13.com

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Apr 12, 2024 - 13:00
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West MI Man shares story of surviving child sexual assault for ‘Wear Blue Day’

Survivor of Child Sex Abuse Advocates for Awareness

Friday, April 12, 2024, is Wear Blue Day, a time to bring awareness to sexual abuse against children as April marks Child Abuse Awareness Month.

Sharing a Story of Survival

Andrew Fuelling, a resident of West Michigan, is sharing his story of surviving child sex abuse and emphasizing the importance of discussing this issue.

The Beacon of Light

Fuelling refers to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County as a beacon of light. He believes that despite experiencing darkness as a child, individuals can find light again.

Becoming an Advocate

After attending events organized by the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County, Fuelling decided to become a board member to support their cause.

A Hidden Secret

Fuelling reveals that he himself was a victim of child sex abuse at the age of eight. He kept this secret for decades and only disclosed it in his 30s. He highlights that the average age of reporting for male victims is 52.

Overcoming Shame and Fear

Fuelling explains that shame and fear often prevent victims from reporting their abuse. He shares the statistic that one in four girls and one in 13 boys experience child sex abuse before the age of 18, but believes that these numbers may be higher due to underreporting.

A Widespread Issue

Fuelling emphasizes that child sex abuse can happen anywhere, regardless of socioeconomic status or neighborhood. He shares his personal experience of growing up in a middle-class neighborhood with a good family and attending a reputable school.

The Importance of Conversation

Fuelling suggests that open dialogue is crucial in combatting child sex abuse. He advises parents to be observant of their children and notice any behavioral changes indicating potential abuse. He encourages families to discuss topics such as good touching, bad touching, trusted adults, and the importance of speaking up when something seems wrong.

Life Beyond Abuse

Fuelling wants other victims and survivors to know that their lives are not defined by their abuse. He believes that individuals can overcome their past and achieve anything they desire.

The Power of Organizations

Fuelling expresses that organizations like the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County can make a significant difference in the lives of child abuse survivors. He believes that if such organizations existed during his childhood, he might be in an even better position today.

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

  1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

    • Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children
    • Indicator 16.2.3: Proportion of young women and men aged 18-29 years who experienced sexual violence by age 18

  2. SDG 5: Gender Equality

    • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres
    • Indicator 5.2.1: Proportion of ever-partnered women and girls aged 15 years and older subjected to physical, sexual, or psychological violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months

  3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

    • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
    • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities

Analysis:

The article discusses the issue of child sex abuse and the importance of raising awareness about it. Based on the content of the article, the following SDGs, targets, and indicators can be identified:

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The article addresses the issue of child sex abuse, which is a form of violence against children. SDG 16 aims to end abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against children.

  • Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children
  • Indicator 16.2.3: Proportion of young women and men aged 18-29 years who experienced sexual violence by age 18

2. SDG 5: Gender Equality

The article mentions that one in four girls and one in 13 boys experience child sex abuse by the time they’re 18. This highlights the need to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.

  • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres
  • Indicator 5.2.1: Proportion of ever-partnered women and girls aged 15 years and older subjected to physical, sexual, or psychological violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

The article mentions that child sex abuse can happen anywhere, regardless of social or economic status. SDG 10 aims to promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all individuals, irrespective of their status.

  • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
  • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Targets Indicators
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children Indicator 16.2.3: Proportion of young women and men aged 18-29 years who experienced sexual violence by age 18
SDG 5: Gender Equality Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres Indicator 5.2.1: Proportion of ever-partnered women and girls aged 15 years and older subjected to physical, sexual, or psychological violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: wzzm13.com

 

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