Actor Anthony Edwards Joins Board of 1in6, A National Nonprofit Serving Men Who Have Experienced Sexual Abuse or Assault
LOS ANGELES (PRWEB) April 17, 2018 -- Anthony Edwards, the actor and director best known for his role on the television series ER, has joined the board of directors of 1in6, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting men who have experienced sexual abuse or assault.
In the 11 years since it was founded, 1in6 has become a leading voice in the anti-sexual violence movement and a trusted resource for male-identifying survivors and their loved ones, as well as clinicians looking for research-based, trauma-informed programs. The overarching mission of the organization is to support the healing of men who have had unwanted or abusive sexual experiences by: working to eliminate the stigma that silences male survivors; raising public awareness around the issue (recently, 1in6 released a powerful PSA in partnership with NO MORE and funded in part by the NFL); creating virtual and in-person communities of healing; and training professionals to be better equipped to serve men with these experiences.
In November of 2017, Edwards spoke out about his own experience with sexual abuse in an online post. Like many men who have had an unwanted or abusive sexual experience in childhood, Edwards repressed the trauma for decades. It wasn’t until he was 51 years-old that he began to address the legacies of the abuse and reach out for help. One of the places he turned to was 1in6.
“I did not go from being a victim to a survivor alone,” Edwards wrote. “No one does. I had to ask for help, and I am so grateful that I did.”
Edwards joins a board comprised of program leaders and academic experts on sexual abuse, violence, and public health. In addition to performing regular board duties, Edwards will work with 1in6 to grow its awareness initiative, including by presenting on the issue around the country with 1in6 staff.
“We are very pleased to welcome Anthony to our national board of directors,” said Claire Harwell, 1in6 Board Chair. “He will be an exceptional advocate for male survivors, bringing an articulate voice and well-known face to an issue that is often unseen and unspoken.”
About 1in6
1in6 is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help men who have had unwanted or abusive sexual experiences live healthier, happier lives. 1in6 also serves family members, friends, partners, and professionals by providing information and support resources on the web and in the community. 1in6 has partnered with organizations and campaigns such as the Joyful Heart Foundation, NO MORE, RAINN, Men & Healing (Canada), Living Well (Australia), and Survivors Manchester (UK). In 2017, almost 400,000 visitors turned to the 1in6 website for support. For more information, visit 1in6.org. Follow us on Facebook.
Meredith Alling, Development and Communications Director, 1in6, Inc., http://www.1in6.org, +1 747-208-1797, [email protected]
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