Louise Nicholas to Open Inaugrual Sosa NZ Summit

Into the Light

Nine months ago the conditions under which sexual abuse survivors could gain support under ACC, changed. In the meantime 95% of survivors have been denied the professional help they need. Cuts continue to be driven under the “New Clinical Pathway” disguise, despite wide ranging protests that seem to fall on deaf governmental ears. From this, the need arose to bring together survivors for networking and to find alternative ways towards recovery. This gave birth to SOSA (Survivors of Sexual Abuse) a non-profit, bi-cultural organisation. Like-minded volunteer survivors came together to create a day of unity, strength and inspiration.

SOSA’s vision is to carefully lift the shroud of silence and thereby re-claim power from a political and social environment currently perceived as re-traumatising and marginalising. We believe this summit is not a 'one-off', but the first of many. SOSA is being established as a charitable society that can then function as a survivor union, organising summits, giving courses, becoming politically active, and maybe even striving towards generating a funding source for those survivors who struggle to get funding for treatment.

This inaugural day long hui takes place at AUT on the North Shore on the shortest day of the year– Sunday the 20th June 2010. The symbolism of the darkest night of mid winter represents the darkness that many face when beginning their journey of recovery from such trauma.

A song written for this event will open the day at 9am. Louise Nicholas will pave the way for 8 other inspiring speakers, including MP Lynne Pillay to talk about their courageous journeys. Working through trauma can be debilitating and excruciatingly painful. Shame, self-blame and self-hatred are often taken on by survivors until the are able to give back these feelings to whom they really belong – the perpetrators of the abuse.

Creativity release is one way of working through this healing journey, therefore art and writing/poetry workshops will be offered for those in a creative mood. Wellpark College of Naturopathy are in charge of encouraging self-care –participants will enjoy safe massage, relaxation, aromatherapy, yoga and Ayurvedic ways of pampering. A soothing, meditational dance workshop will be led by an experienced mind/body therapist for those who prefer to be more active. So much choice, do it all, or just chat, mingle and have fun!

Comfort spaces will be set aside for those who may require a quiet space. Other survivors will display their crafts – harakeke (flax) weaving will be demonstrated and stunning bead work can be bought. New and second hand books about healing will be for sale. Nourishing and nurturing soups for lunch, teas and coffees are all included in the entry fee.

An informal forum will take place before day's end to korero about finding ways of getting better services, and the much needed help for survivors of sexual abuse. These findings will be delivered to government and will clearly demonstrate that survivors know best what works for them.

The gathering will take place with safety for all in mind. Places are limited so register now on www.sosanz.com. The entry fee is $15.00, going up to $20.00 a week before the summit to cover the cost of food. It is essential to register on the web-site beforehand.

We welcome all survivors, their supporters or those affected by another’s abuse to come into the light and join us on this important day in history. Please register at www.sosanz.com as soon as possible as numbers will be limited. Entry will be gained only by registering on the website and with a month to go, the time to do it is now!

We are unashamedly asking for support and donations, so that we can finance this day of hope. Please, push the donate button on www.sosanz.com and help survivors gain voice and advocacy. We very much appreciate your support.

ENDS

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