Feeling SEEN: The 31st Annual Mad Hatter Benefits Nashville’s Sexual Assault Center
According to the CDC, over half of American women and nearly 1 in 3 men have experienced sexual violence. The numbers are just as alarming for children: 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys. Such a traumatic event can have life-long effects — both physically and emotionally.
When the Sexual Assault Center (SAC) first opened its Nashville doors in 1978 — combatting an epidemic which knows no bounds — the nonprofit had a vision that would humanize such horrific statistics: “To provide healing for children, adults and families affected by sexual assault and to end sexual violence through counseling, education and advocacy.” That vision continues to thrive, thanks to the support of its Middle Tennessee community.
The Sexual Assault Center held its signature event — the 31st Annual Mad Hatter — at The Joseph, in downtown Nashville. Along with a silent auction and passed hors d’oeuvres and sips, a celebration was in full force. Attendees were encouraged to don their favorite lid, chapeau, fascinator and the like. From a top hat resembling a teacup to a DIY creation that included lights, not even the Mad Hatter could squelch the imagination of this year’s celebrants.
Throughout the event, one special creation was presented as an immersive experience: SEEN. In their own voices, survivors told their individual healing journeys in a short film. These stories are part of a collection of 18 portraits and are included in the project’s eponymous book, created by Nashville photographer Dan Heller. “SEEN shows survivors — not as statistics or victims — but as fully empowered, in control, telling their own stories,” Dan told attendees during the exhibit. You can purchase a copy of SEEN — 100% of the proceeds go to benefit SAC — at SeenSurvivors.com.
During opening remarks, co-chair Cameron Simmons said, “A woman’s autonomy and to make their own decisions” is what compelled her to want to make a difference by becoming this year’s co-chair. Cameron’s counterpart, co-chair Nealy Glenn, agreed while adding, “This is where I want to be.
