Why Support The Butterfly Program
Why Survivors of GBV Deserve Support to Heal and Recover
Gender-based violence (GBV) is any harmful act directed at an individual based on their gender, and it takes many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse. It affects people of all genders, but women, LGBTQ+ communities, and marginalized groups are disproportionately impacted. Survivors of GBV—those who have endured and survived acts of gender-based violence—are left to navigate complex paths to recovery, often with limited support. To foster a compassionate society that values dignity and justice, we must prioritize accessible support systems for GBV survivors.
What Survivors of GBV Experience
Survivors of GBV often face both immediate and long-term impacts from their experiences. Physical and sexual violence can lead to injuries and chronic pain, and profound psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Emotional or psychological abuse, though less visible, can lead to deep-seated feelings of worthlessness, fear, and isolation.
Survivors not only grapple with the aftermath of the abuse itself but also with societal reactions. In many cases, survivors face victim-blaming, discrimination, or disbelief, which deepens their isolation and can make it harder to reach out for support. Society’s stigmatization of GBV survivors adds an additional layer of pain and can prevent them from openly addressing their trauma and receiving the help they need to recover fully.
Survivors also experience:
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A state of powerlessness
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Being forced by others to pursue specific remedial actions which can cause survivors or victims to lose their sense of agency.
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Credibility may be questioned
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Societal judgements
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Disbelief from people about the incident/s
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Constant fear and feelings of untrustworthiness for one's surroundings
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Friends or family may remain unsupportive of the survivor or victim due to judgements, blame, etc.
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The workplace environment, systems and support services, legal services, courts, etc. may remain unsupportive of the victim or survivor or cause re-traumatization through language or behavior.
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Deteriorating emotional and mental wellness of the survivor or victim.
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Experiencing physical or medical consequences resulting from the violence itself or from stress caused after the violence.
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Monetary losses for the victim or survivor from having to pay for redress like legal fees, medical fees, mental health relevant fees, etc. OR from an inability to go to work and earn.
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If the person who is causing violence is a partner (example: in domestic violence or intimate partner violence), then the victim or survivor may find themselves in a state of instability because they may have to continually move locations to avoid the aggressor.
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Experiencing violence or any violation has the potential to change the survivor or victims entire future, their aspirations, their purpose, etc.
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Many survivors or victims may not have access to redress and resources at all due to their location
The Societal Implications of Untreated Trauma from GBV
Each survivor who goes unsupported represents a loss not only to themselves but also to society. Untreated trauma can affect survivors' ability to fully engage in life, impacting their educational pursuits, career growth, and personal relationships. This results in significant social and economic costs, as survivors may need more healthcare, be less productive at work, or struggle to contribute as fully as they might otherwise.
The ripple effects of untreated trauma are profound: survivors’ children are more likely to experience or perpetrate violence, creating a cycle of harm across generations. Societies that fail to support GBV survivors indirectly foster environments where violence persists, affecting public safety, economic stability, and the overall well-being of communities. By supporting survivors in their healing, we can contribute to breaking cycles of abuse and building stronger, more resilient communities.
Why Many Survivors Often Normalize or Do Not Disclose Violence
Many survivors of GBV feel unable to disclose their experiences due to social and cultural pressures. In some cultures, including parts of India, traditional beliefs may lead survivors to feel ashamed or even responsible for the abuse. For example, a woman facing domestic violence might be urged to “keep the peace” within her family, making her reluctant to report the abuse or seek help.
Fear of retribution is another barrier. Survivors may worry about retaliation from their abusers or fear being disbelieved by those around them. Survivors who are financially dependent on their abusers or who lack family support are often afraid of the consequences of speaking out, especially if they feel they have nowhere else to turn. Additionally, many survivors lack awareness of their rights or the resources available to them, which further discourages disclosure. This silence not only isolates survivors but also perpetuates a culture where GBV remains hidden, minimizing public awareness and responsiveness.
Raising Awareness of Supportive Resources in India
One of the most effective ways to support survivors of GBV is by ensuring they are aware of the resources available to them. India has a range of services to help survivors, including One Stop Centres that provide legal, medical, and psychological support, as well as NGOs offering counseling and shelter. Unfortunately, many survivors, especially those in rural areas or with limited education, may not know that these resources exist or understand how to access them.
Awareness initiatives that inform survivors about these resources can be transformative and recognizing this, we at Imaara Survivor SUpport Foundation, established The BUtterfly Hug Program. Through this program we strive to map and publicize the available support services across India—such as helplines, shelter homes, counseling centers, and legal aid—can empower survivors to seek assistance without fear or shame. We are creating a database of resources and articles, translated into local languages and widely circulated, that could serve as a vital guide for survivors embarking on their healing journey. A survivor who knows where and how to get support is far more likely to seek help, which can catalyze positive change in their life and encourage other survivors to come forward.
Supporting survivors of GBV is not just about offering aid to individuals—it is about fostering a society built on compassion, justice, and resilience. By understanding what survivors experience, acknowledging the cost of untreated trauma on society, recognizing why survivors often remain silent, and increasing awareness of resources, we can build a supportive ecosystem for those affected by GBV. Our Butterfly HUg Program that highlights available resources provides hope, safety, and pathways to recovery, helping survivors regain control of their lives. Empowering survivors to heal is a step toward creating a community where every individual can live without fear or stigma.
Why Society Should Support Such a Project
Supporting Project Tell-Tale that amplifies the voices of GBV survivors and bystanders is crucial in creating a more aware and compassionate society. By contributing to these efforts, people can help increase awareness about GBV and the support services available to survivors, as well as encourage others to listen, believe, and stand up for those affected by violence. These projects not only foster healing but also inspire societal transformation, promoting an environment where survivors are respected, validated, and supported.
Storytelling projects encourage people to confront difficult truths and empower them to be more than passive observers. They create opportunities for survivors and bystanders alike to contribute to an ongoing dialogue that shapes how society views and responds to GBV. By supporting storytelling initiatives, we help build a future where every person can feel safe, respected, and valued, free from the fear of gender-based violence.
Storytelling is a powerful tool in the movement to combat gender-based violence. By sharing the stories of survivors, we promote healing, foster empathy, and challenge harmful norms in society. Our initiative that provides a safe, anonymous space for survivors and bystanders to tell their stories offer invaluable support to those affected by GBV, and they educate society about the urgent need for change. When we listen, believe, and amplify the voices of survivors, we take steps toward building a world where no one has to suffer in silence. Through storytelling, we can create a culture of compassion, resilience, and empowerment for all.