There are many people in our community working to create positive change to end sexual violence. We want to meet as many of them as possible. If you would like to submit a recommendation, please email prevention@brstar.org.
I think it’s important for people to have a safe space where they’re able to speak
their mind, while also listening to others. Good lasting change will never happen without proper communication.–Chris Pourciau
1. What is your relationship with STAR?
CP: Ally, friend, contributor, whenever needed.
2. What led you to get involved with STAR and/or join the movement to end sexual violence?
CP: I started getting involved with STAR about year ago, because I saw something and I felt that I didn’t do enough. It bothered me to the point where I met with my friends Bekah and Helen to discuss issues regarding “rape culture.” (At the time, Bekah was serving at STAR as an LDSC corps member.) It turned out to be a really great conversation that opened my eyes to things that I never really thought about, and it inspired me to educate myself on the issue.
It was from there that I got in contact with Rebecca Marchiafava, STAR’s Vice-President of Social Change, who gave me tons of reading material and was gracious enough to answer any questions I had. We continued to meet bi-monthly and talk about things that I had been learning and how the work that STAR does correlates with current events.
3. What do you find most rewarding about your participation in this movement?
CP: The most rewarding part of my participation in the movement is talking about what I’ve learned with my friends, and then seeing them want to take part in the movement and learn about what they can do as allies, as well as get educated on the issues.
4. What motivates you to keep going when things get difficult or discouraging?
CP: I hate to give the cliché answer, but my family and friends provide me with the best motivation. I truly have the BEST support system in place, who teach, listen, allow me to grow and never let me go down the wrong path.
5. What are some simple, day-to-day ways you promote positive change in our community?
CP: I always encourage people to educate themselves on any issues they’re interested in. Reading is fundamental. I also try to promote healthy dialogue. I think it’s important for people to have a safe space where they’re able to speak their mind, while also listening to others. Good lasting change will never happen without proper communication.
6. What advice would you give to someone who is hesitant about becoming an active member of this movement?
CP: I would tell anyone who is hesitant to join the movement—especially men—to Google what’s going on. Read about what’s happening around the world, around you. Nobody is going to verbally attack you. Nobody is going to shame you. There’s nothing to lose…except some archaic beliefs. But seriously, you lose nothing. This movement is about preventing sexual abuse and providing survivors the support they need. I encourage everyone to, at the very least, read up on the issue. It’s time we all join the movement.
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