Forewarning: this article contains sensitive, and oftentimes triggering, topics such as sexual assault and abuse. If these issues distress you, please do not read any further.

Ever since Inauguration Day last year, women’s rights has been a hotly contested issue within American society. More specifically, the uproar of the #MeToo movement focused on calling out sexual assailants has been a huge topic in the last few months. This movement has brought about awareness concerning the disturbing truths about victims of sexual assault, as well as the commonality of sexual abuse in the world.

Recently, Larry Nassar, formerly known for his work as the USA Gymnastics team doctor and Michigan State physician, was convicted to up to 175 years for serial sexual abuse that occurred over many years during his career. The judge for the case, Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, let 98 victims of this assault case give their statements in court.

This is a HUGE step towards progress as many sexual assault testimonies do not take the victims’ statements into consideration based on the premise that there is “no evidence”.

Judge Aquilina has been stated saying, “I didn’t want even one victim to lose their voice.”

Although there have been more than 150 accusations against Nassar, not all the women had the courage to face their abuser once more. To look someone in the eye who physically and mentally ruined your life is true courage. I admire all the women who came out with their statements despite their years of being silenced. I think we are all in agreement on the bravery displayed by all these women.

However, I do not believe everyone is in agreement about those who did not come out with statements and/or speak about their experience with Nassar.

It’s important to acknowledge the fact that there are people, men and women alike, who have been sexually abused, but they do not feel comfortable discussing it. This does NOT undermine their feelings and thoughts any less than someone who can speak up. This does NOT mean these people are weak. This does NOT make their experience any less traumatizing or serious.

I think it is easy to be congratulatory towards victims who share their stories. Yes, their voices are stronger when united, and it is great to raise awareness towards this type of monstrosity that is commonplace in today’s world. But, in order to end the stigma around victims and stop victim blaming, we must respect those who suffer in silence.

We must remember that not everyone contains the ability to speak out about issues so troubling to them. We need to remind others that while speaking out is great, it is okay to stay silent. Those who have suffered through an awful experience are still brave for waking up and dealing with that every single day of their lives. We need to respect one another’s choices regarding their own experiences.

To those who choose not to elaborate or speak on their trauma: you ARE brave.

Larry Nassar and every other sexual abuser deserve to rot in a prison cell for their despicable actions. It will NEVER be the victims' faults for the punishable crimes they committed.