The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions, yet current reporting practices in Hong Kong often reinforce harmful stereotypes about sexual violence. These narratives can hinder survivors’ recovery and perpetuate societal stigma.
The Association Concerning Sexual Violence Against Women (ACSVAW) recognises the detrimental impact of sensationalised reporting and strives to transform these narratives into ones that support healing and empowerment. With the support from The D. H. Chen Foundation, ACSVAW has launched the Empowerment Through Narrative programme to produce resources that foster trauma-informed narratives in Hong Kong. The programme encourages sensitive approaches to addressing, discussing and depicting sexual violence among media professionals, independent content creators, survivors, social workers, and the public.
This one-year programme will be implemented in phases: ACSVAW will engage with the victim-survivors and media professionals to ensure that the resources developed are comprehensive and effective. Building on the insights gathered during these consultations, ACSVAW will create visual resources including Trauma-Informed Journalism Guidebook, and guidelines on media interactions tailored to social workers and victim-survivors. These resources will be published under the Anti480 Anti-Sexual Violence Resource Centre, the education unit of ACSVAW, disseminated eventually through various channels including training sessions, workshops, and social media campaigns. By amplifying survivor voices, ACSVAW aims to drive mindset change towards greater understanding and empathy.
A workshop on empowering journalists with the tools and knowledge to address and report incidents effectively
The Association hosting a workshop at CUHK's School of Journalism and Communication
The Association hosting a workshop at CUHK's School of Journalism and Communication
By confronting social stigmas and creating inclusive environments for vulnerable groups through these resources, the programme aims to dismantle stereotypes and misconceptions about victim-survivors, cultivating a compassionate culture and fostering a safer and more supportive community for all. Dedicated to fostering a compassionate society, the Foundation believes that the programme will improve respect and understanding in trauma communication.