Reclaiming the Narrative: How Digital Storytelling Creates Healing Spaces for Survivors with Jessica McLean

RESOLVing Violence

In this week's episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we're joined by Jessica McLean; a passionate advocate and researcher in the field of gender-based violence. Tune in as she sheds light on the groundbreaking use of digital storytelling to empower survivors of abuse and violence.
Jessica delves into how social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit have provided survivors with a voice by fostering discussions and support networks. Through anonymous forums and online communities, individuals can seek advice, validation, and professional guidance from strangers who have experienced similar situations.
The episode explores the methodology of digital storytelling, which involves participants sharing their stories and creating a unique form of art and storytelling through multimedia. McLean highlights how this process empowers survivors by providing them with a platform to express their deepest and darkest experiences, ultimately bringing them into the light.
An essential message from the episode is the need to set aside assumptions and truly listen to survivors. This means acknowledging that barriers, such as love for the abuser, financial constraints, or systemic issues, can prevent someone from leaving an abusive relationship. By centering the survivor's experiences and giving them space and a voice, genuine connections can be formed that facilitate healing and growth.
Learn More About Our Guest
Jessica McLean (she/her) is a recent M Ed. graduate in School and Counselling Psychology from the University of Saskatchewan who has worked with non-profits supporting survivors of gender-based violence in both direct and behind-the-scenes roles. Jess has a wide range of interests and passions including art, writing, photography, de-stigmatizing mental health, disability, and neurodiversity, and of course, intersectional and inclusive feminism.
To connect with Jessica McLean, contact her at [email protected].

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/