Sexual assault expert Ellen Bass featured at ‘An Evening of Healing’ Sept. 26 at Syracuse University

Sexual assault expert Ellen Bass featured at ‘An Evening of Healing’ Sept. 26 at Syracuse UniversitySeptember 24, 2002Michele M. Jachimmmjachim@syr.edu

As part of an ongoing commitment to improve awareness and resources for sexual trauma survivors, the Onondaga Community Sexual Trauma Task Force, the Division of Student Affairs, and the University Rape Advocate Prevention Education (R.A.P.E.) Center at Syracuse University will present “An Evening of Healing” with nationally renowned author and advocate Ellen Bass. The presentation will take place on Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the Schine Student Center’s Panasci Lounge. The presentation is free and open to the community.

Bass is a pioneer in the field of healing from sexual abuse. For the past 25 years, she has listened to stories of survivors and helped them heal. She is co-author with Laura Davis on the classic resource for survivors and helping professionals, “The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse” (HarperCollins, 1994).

The presentation will include selected poetry readings and discussions, coupled with Bass’ approach to healing through creative expression. Bass will sign copies of her book following the event.

“We are hopeful the community-including survivors and their allies-will join us for what is expected to be an enlightening and encouraging event that celebrates healing through Ellen’s unique approach of creative expression,” says Dessa Bergen-Cico, associate dean of students.

In conjunction with the Sept. 26 “Evening of Healing,” a half-day workshop will be held on Sept. 27 for professionals and practitioners who work with survivors of sexual trauma. Registration for the event is required. For more information, contact the Mental Health Association, 6493 Ridings Road, Suite 112, Syracuse, NY 13206, or Lisa Davis at 477-1583.

Bass has developed and facilitated workshops for women survivors of sexual abuse and trained professionals who work with survivors. She is co-founder of the Survivors Healing Center, a nonprofit organization in Santa Cruz, Calif., that provides services to adult survivors, their families and supporters.