Breaking News: Everything's Broken (How to Navigate Turbulent Waters)

The last few weeks have left everyone’s head spinning. This is particularly true of survivors and organizations who serve them. 

From a revolving door of cabinet appointees with known histories of sexual assault accusations, to an attempt to freeze funding for federal grants leaving countless survivor-focused nonprofits scrambling to stay afloat, to the removal of critical sexual assault research from the CDC website, to threats to the Department of Education and Title IX, to violent criminals who (since being pardoned) have been arrested for rape and child sexual assault. 

Each breaking news story has triggered a tidal wave of confusion and panic. And, before we recover from one, the next one comes crashing down.

And if all this wasn’t disturbing and disruptive enough, survivors in the trans and immigrant communities are also dealing with escalating threats and fears for their safety, whether working, attending school, or attempting to seek vital support services.

Remember that people being exhausted and giving up IS the goal.

These times remind us of the military strategy ‘shock and awe,’ which involves initiating an overwhelming physical and psychological attack designed to create a sense of intimidation and helplessness and force the enemy to give up.

While understanding the fact that this is the intended effect can help, it does not diminish its impact. 

In sticking with the wave reference from earlier, let’s remember that while water can be violent and destructive, it can also be a source of beauty, connection, and positivity. The same is true of people and social movements. 

So, whether or not you are a survivor, if you’re feeling confused, helpless, or overwhelmed, you are not alone.

Here are some practical ways to cope with the chaos (in wave terms)...

1. Remember that Each Drop is Powerful

When we think of the power of water, we often envision the wave. But each wave consists of many drops of water. So, remember that no matter what your contribution is right now, it is meaningful. Whether that is keeping up with the news, leveraging your social media to educate or elevate causes you care about, signing petitions, protesting, checking on your friends, or simply reading this blog - it all matters.


2. Find Joy (and if possible sunshine)

We recently saw a TikTok that talked about how activists managed to cope during the peak of the AIDS crisis. The message is that joy and celebration is not only OK, but is a critical part of maintaining the energy needed to continue fighting during times of extreme adversity. So, if you were wondering if it’s OK to meet up with that friend, laugh over drinks, or have a dance party - Yes…DO IT! Your joy is resistance.  


3. Support the Surfers 

While we (as individuals) might not always have the energy to get in the water, paddle out, and get thrown around in the waves, there are organizations who live in the water. So, consider supporting organizations like Callisto, who are fighting relentlessly every day (often with minimal funds) to ensure that survivors and other vulnerable populations are protected and uplifted.

We will not sugarcoat the overwhelming situation we all find ourselves in with glossy photos or shallow reassurance. These times are dark and likely to get darker. However, we are not done fighting (or surfing). And - in whatever capacity you can be - we are so glad you’re here.