Labor Day: Honoring the Right to Heal and Be Seen
Labor Day: Honoring the Right to Heal and Be Seen
Dear Survivor,
Labor Day is a time when we pause to recognize the hard work and dedication of all those who contribute to society. It's a day to reflect on rights—the rights of workers, the right to fair treatment, and the right to stand up for yourself. While Labor Day honors the rights of workers, it's also a reminder that you, as a survivor, have rights—the right to be seen, the right to heal, and the right to take up space in this world without shame.
Just as Labor Day is a celebration of the contributions people make, your survival and your journey to healing are an important part of what makes this world whole. Your strength, even on days when it feels like you're carrying a heavy load, is worth recognizing. Just like workers who are valued for their efforts, you, too, are worthy of respect, acknowledgment, and support.
The Right to Heal
Labor Day celebrates rights that protect workers from unfair treatment and exploitation. In the same way, survivors of sexual assault have the right to healing. Healing doesn’t follow a set timeline, and it can look different for everyone. But you have the right to take that journey on your own terms. You have the right to seek help, to take moments of rest, to speak out, and to ask for the support you need to heal.
Your Right to Be Seen and Heard
Labor Day is about more than just rest—it’s about recognizing and giving credit where it’s due. As survivors, you deserve to be seen, to have your voice heard, and to feel validated in your pain and strength. No matter what your journey looks like, you are not invisible. Your story is important, your healing matters, and you are allowed to occupy this space with dignity.
The Right to Rest and Recharge
Labor Day also marks a pause—a chance to stop, reflect, and appreciate what’s been done. As a survivor, it's vital to remember that you have the right to rest. Trauma can leave emotional scars that are just as real as physical ones. The toll it takes on your mind and spirit deserves the space to heal, just like a worker who has labored for hours deserves a break. You are allowed to take time for yourself—whether it's for a quiet moment or a longer respite—without guilt.
Healing is Hard Work, and You Deserve Acknowledgment
Just as Labor Day honors the hard work and effort of workers, this is your reminder that healing is hard work. Survivors often don’t get the recognition they deserve for the courage it takes to heal from trauma. You might not wear a uniform or clock in and out, but every step you take toward healing—no matter how small—is an accomplishment worthy of recognition.
This Labor Day, take a moment to honor your right to heal, rest, and be seen. You are deserving of acknowledgment and love, and as you continue on your journey, know that you are not alone. You are worthy of the care and respect that you offer others. Celebrate the strength it takes to rise up each day and keep moving forward. The healing process is not easy, but every moment of it is part of your right to live fully, in peace, and with hope.
Kathe'rine
---