Scouting should undoubtedly be a safe place for everyone to be themselves. So why does a movement like SASHA (Scouts Against Sexual Harassment and Assault) need to exist and what do they do?
SASHA is a grassroots movement that was started in the Philippines with the aim of making the world a safer place for everyone, irrespective of gender or sexual identity. The movement carries out advocacy work, provides groups with relevant education sessions and resources, enables safe reporting of incidents, and provides support to victims of harassment and abuse. Whilst its life began in the Philippines, SASHA’s ultimate aim is to become a global movement, and thanks to the work of ambassadors like Charley Baden-Powell, word is spreading and support is growing.
Charley took the opportunity on Saturday to introduce Dwayne Fields to SASHA and spoke passionately about the movement’s work, explaining that, thanks to SASHA, she felt empowered to speak out and report an incident that she would otherwise have kept quiet about. Dwayne was moved by Charley’s candour, opening up about some of his own experiences and assuring Charley that her and SASHA’s message will continue to be spread far and wide.
