Paul Howard's Story: From Childhood Trauma to Cinematic Advocacy
Episode Overview
Paul shares his survivor journey and the message behind his film 'Tomorrow' Importance of creating work that educates and inspires without repulsing the audience Emphasizing the need to normalize conversations around child abuse Understanding the nuanced experiences of survivors and advocates Reminder of the healing power of storytelling and the ripple effect of sharing personal experiences
I hope people really take that and believe it and revel in it because too long, I think we have played into these narratives that it only takes powerful, rich, famous people. But the truth is it doesn't.
Paul Howard, a filmmaker, artist, and activist, shares his compelling journey from being a victim of child abuse to becoming a powerful advocate for change. In this episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now', Paul discusses his latest short film, 'Tomorrow', which draws from his own harrowing experiences. The film, directed by Karis Campbell, has won awards and now includes an epilogue titled 'Paul's Story'.
This companion piece delves deeper into the themes of the film with insights from child safety educator Pattie Fitzgerald. Paul opens up about the harsh realities of abuse, emphasizing that 90% of abusers are known to the victim. He recounts the fear-filled environment he endured at a daycare from the age of six months to twelve years, where he and other children faced relentless abuse.
Through honest reflection, Paul reveals how he once perceived this abuse as normal due to its pervasiveness in his life. This episode underscores the importance of educating children about the true nature of abuse and creating a safe space for survivors to share their stories. Paul's narrative is a testament to the healing power of storytelling and the impact of turning personal pain into a mission for advocacy.
Whether you're a survivor, an ally, or someone interested in understanding the complexities of childhood trauma, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.