The following is a list of discussion questions you can use with your group while discussing Sarah’s TEDxBeaconStreet talk.

  1. What images came to mind for you at the beginning of the talk? Are they different now? If so, how?
  2. What makes you feel the most uncomfortable when it comes to talking about sexual violence?
  3. Have you ever cast blame when it comes to sexual violence? Why? Did it help make the conversation more or less comfortable? Have you ever been the recipient of blame? How did that make you feel?
  4. When did you first encounter a survivor of sexual violence? What emotions did it bring up? What are some of the things you said and did? Looking back, would you say or do anything differently?
  5. How do you talk about sexual violence with your female friends? How about your male friends? What makes it easy/hard or comfortable/uncomfortable?
  6. What are some of the obstacles men face when speaking up or seeking support about sexual violence? Would you be prepared to support a male friend who is a survivor? Why or why not?
  7. What practical questions do you have about sexual violence or for survivors themselves?
  8. Who else in your life do you think would benefit from a conversation about sexual violence? Are you willing to start one with them?

If you need support after today’s discussion, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE.

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