I’ve told my story in Dumb Girl. Last year was about that—getting it out of my body and into the world, onto shelves, and into the hands of those who might benefit from reading it. A year of shedding shame, standing in my truth, and becoming visible.
Now, everything feels different. This year, my focus shifts from sharing my experience to helping others share theirs. I’m using my advocacy chops to help other survivors find their voice.
Which is why I’m honored to share that 5WAVES—an organization I proudly volunteer with—has announced the first-ever U.S. conference devoted exclusively to sibling sexual trauma and abuse (SSTA).
Sibling Sexual Trauma and Abuse: Breaking the Silence Conference
• June 23, 2026
• Long Island University (LIU-Post), Brookville, NY
• Learn more & get involved: https://www.5waves.org/conference
For decades, survivors of SSTA have lived in silence—often believing they were alone, unseen, and unheard. I know I did. That’s why this conference matters. With an anticipated 200-250 attendees, it offers meaningful opportunities for impact, visibility, and connection—creating space for truth, education, community, and healing—bringing survivors, families, and professionals together for the first U.S. event of its kind.
How You Can Participate
Present
Call for abstracts open through January 18 — we welcome survivors, professionals, and advocates.
• Interactive workshops
• Survivor-led sessions
• Clinical trainings
• Panels & lived experience storytelling
If interested, please fill out this Presenter Submission Form
Attend
• $200 Early Bird (January 2026)
• $250 Regular Price
Sponsor (tax-deductible)
• Stand with survivors by helping fund accessibility services and trauma-informed conference practices.
• Options include exhibitor tables for advocates and organizations, plus branding options (Keynote, ASL/CART access, and other visibility placements).
• Explore sponsorship levels: https://www.5waves.org/sponsorship
• To sponsor: Complete this form or email conference@5waves.org
Advocate
• Exhibitor tables available (advocates, healers, clinicians, child advocacy center (CAC) professionals, nonprofits, authors, educators)
Who Should Attend
• Survivors
• Parents & family members
• Practitioners & clinicians
• Educators & researchers
• Social workers & CAC professionals
• Advocates & allied professionals
This conference is more than an event—it’s a movement. I’d love for you to be part of it.
