To respond to and prevent sexual violence, we need to work at every level to create change. HEART has developed a three-pronged framework that works to address sexual violence at three levels: individual (Respond with RAHMA), communal (Fulfill your AMANAH), and institutional (Lead with ADALAH). Check out the accompanying handouts to learn more about the RAHMA, AMANAH, and ADALAH frameworks in our resource library as well.

Tags: Fulfill your AMANAH, Healing, Institutional Change, Lead with ADALAH, RAHIM, Healing, Responding with RAHMA

As more victims of sexual violence find the courage and strength to come forward, it is crucial for institutions and their leaders to lead with ADALAH, or justice, by addressing sexual violence in a victim-centric and timely manner, and working to establish a commitment to accountability. In addition to responding to disclosures with RAHMA and working toward prevention to fulfill an AMANAH, the ADALAH principles offer organizational leaders with steps that they can take to ensure that they are equipped to address sexual violence disclosures with a victim-centered, trauma-informed, transparent approach.

Tags: Avenues of Support, Healing, Institutional Change, Lead with ADALAH, RAHIM

In addition to responding to individual victims with RAHMA, communities can work toward proactive prevention through the AMANAH framework. In Islam, Muslims believe that many of the responsibilities and blessings they are granted are an amanah, or trust, from God. In this vein, preventing sexual violence and responding to a disclosure of sexual assault, whether as an individual, and especially as a community or institution, is a great amanah.

Tags: Fulfill your AMANAH, Healing, Institutional Change

In light of the Kavanaugh confirmation, there have been many patriarchal narratives that have surfaced from within the Muslim community the either treat sexual violence as existing only in non-Muslim spaces or which diminish the experiences of Muslim survivors of sexual violence. To address the #metoo movement in a Muslim context, this statement addresses the imperative for our community to address this violence from within and to correct much of the problematic theological basis that underpins the patriarchal responses to survivors.

Tags: Barriers to Reporting, Fulfill your AMANAH, Healing, Lead with ADALAH, Healing, Responding with RAHMA, Sexual Violence 101, Spiritual Abuse

Coming forward as a survivor of sexual violence is an incredible act of bravery and courage. While families, friends, and therapists do much to support their loved ones through this process, it is crucial to note that the legal process can also be very lengthy, difficult, and emotionally draining, despite the fact that seeking justice can be empowering and satisfying. It is crucial for family, friends, and professionals to stand by their loved ones through every part of the process. These are some tips to keep in mind.

Tags: Avenues of Support, Healing, Healing, Responding with RAHMA, Sexual Violence 101

Responding with RAHMA has been our theme for this year's (2018) Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The following video has been created to uplift narratives of survivors within our communities, and how we can all respond with RAHMA.

Tags: Avenues of Support, Healing, Islam, RAHIM, Healing, Responding with RAHMA, Sexual Violence 101