Victim or Survivor? Language matters
The language we use when we talk about gender-based violence (GBV) carries a lot of weight. We can cause harm and leave some people feeling excluded if we are not thoughtful about our use of language. How we talk about GBV can even reinforce patriarchal structures and rape culture.
Whether to use the word “survivor” or “victim” when talking about someone who has been subjected to GBV has been the subject of much debate by those providing GBV services and those for whom those services are intended.
Unlike “victim,” “survivor” shifts the focus onto the individual, emphasizing their resilience rather than their victimization. The term “victim” is also the language used in many legal, medical, or reporting systems, which can in and of themselves be re-traumatizing. Using the language associated with those systems can hold negative connotations for those who may wish to access them or have had negative experiences navigating them.
IPV is serious and dangerous, and the term “survivor” helps to recognize this reality. For some women, being described as a survivor is a reminder that they have survived something that could have killed them. They feel strengthened and empowered by the word.
Those who identify with the word “victim” may feel it better holds the person who hurt them accountable and better reflects how they feel about their experience.
While the term “survivor” is preferred by some, “victim” is preferred by others. What is important is to use the language those we are working with would like us to use.
It’s also important to remember that individuals may change which term they use. Some days, a person may resonate more with the label of “victim,” while on others, they may feel empowered by identifying as a “survivor.” Some people may not like either term and may instead prefer to use other culturally or personally significant terms.
A core part of trauma-informed practices is allowing and empowering people to have choice and power over how to name their experiences. At Luke’s Place, we deeply respect and honour the language people choose. Ultimately, while we use both the words “survivor” and “victim” in our systemic work as described above, when we are working with someone who has been subjected to GBV, we use the language of their choice.
We urge you to do the same.
This blog was written by Micah Kalisch, Program Coordinator.
