Christine was drawn to work with youth at the Rape Crisis Centre in Cape Town, South Africa as a way of understanding and confronting her own difficult past. As a child, she was sexually abused; as an adult, she continues to live in an unsafe environment. Her goal is to help young people turn away from drugs and violence and learn instead to set limits and make informed decisions about their sexuality.
Note: This story contains explicit content and is recommended for mature viewers age 14 and up.
Key points to consider in viewing Christine’s story
The sexual abuse of girl children is a common but very hidden form of gender-based violence. Christine’s story explores the lasting impact of incest. It may be a hard story to watch for viewers who themselves have experienced abuse as children. But it takes a courageous stand, by documenting Christine’s conviction that the sexual abuse of children is a violation of their rights and her understanding that seeking help may be crucial to survivors’ well-being. It also raises important questions about how perpetrators can be held accountable for their actions.