June is Torture Awareness Month and June 26 is the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. In June, we recognize that torture is one of the most profound human rights abuses, and it affects millions of individuals and their families around the world. This trauma reaches far beyond the direct victims and in some instances, where torture has been used in a systematic and widespread manner, whole societies are affected.
Those who survive torture have a guaranteed right to rehabilitation under international law. Providing holistic rehabilitation to survivors of torture and trauma can help heal the effects of torture. The International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT) has chosen From Horror to Healing as the theme for this year’s June 26 global campaign in support of survivors of torture.
SURVIVORS, an accredited IRCT member organization, is proud to offer holistic rehabilitation to as many of San Diego’s estimated 35,000 torture survivors as possible. SURVIVORS’ services address psychological, medical, and social needs for torture survivors, helping them to heal from the trauma they experienced, regain their sense of dignity, and rebuild their lives.
We would like your help in commemorating the day and advocating for the right to rehabilitation:
- Contact your senators and congresspersons to encourage them to support the full appropriations of the Torture Victims Relief Act.
- Make a donation to SURVIVORS to support rehabilitation of torture survivors.
- Take a Journey to Healing tour at SURVIVORS to learn more about the services we provide to torture survivors.
- Strive to create a welcoming community for torture survivors.
