Baltimore punks War On Women have revealed the official video for ‘Say It’, taken from their seminal debut album. Dealing with issues surrounding rape and sexual assault, ‘Say It’ encourages victims to speak up about the atrocities done onto them. Accompanied by the band’s viscerally, outspoken and downright angry punk, the hardhitting video pairs the band with genuine victims of assault.
“For this video we wanted to highlight the work of The Monument Quilt Project, which is based in our hometown of Baltimore, as well as give local survivors of sexual assault and rape an opportunity to sing along with us, without shame or stigma,” frontwoman Shawna Potter told PunkNews, who are hosting the video exclusive.
“Shooting this video was an incredibly moving experience for everyone in the band. We know that not all victims have the opportunity to speak out about their experiences, or are shamed when they do. For people who are ready to speak out, or need to, we hope this song can be a safe way to say ‘I was raped’ out loud. You’re not alone.”
In a culture that still allows the blaming and shaming of the victims of such terrible acts, it’s vitally important to see a band use their platform to reassure and encourage appropriate action and response. As the video states in its opening moments, confidential help and support is available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1.800.656.HOPE in the US, or online here.
There are many charities, organisations and helplines in the UK designated to support victims of rape and sexual assault, or those affected indirectly. The Survivors Trust provides support and guidance for all, with Woman’s Aid providing specific support for victims of domestic violence and abuse, and Survivors UK set up for male victims of sexual assault and abuse.