What I have learned I pass on to you who are survivors and who are approached by the media for interviews.

1. If you have any hesitation about granting an interview, follow your instincts. Do not ignore red flags.

2. If possible, always do a pre-interview with the interviewer or whomever is sent to represent him or her.

3. Always record the pre-interview and the interview itself.

4. Always have a trusted and informed person with you at both the pre-interview and the interview - preferably, the same person.

5. Always read contracts carefully. If you do not understand something, ask for it to be explained.

6. Know that you are in charge. You do not have to answer questions with which you are uncomfortable.

7. If you are in your beginning steps of healing, make sure that your healing remains your priority. Nothing supersedes that! You are the most important equation in your healing process. Compliance with the media, be it newspaper, magazine, television or radio ranks a far second below your healing.

8. Always discuss with your therapist, your pastor or whomever you trust whether or not they feel it is safe for you to grant an interview. We have been taught to get a second opinion on matters concerning our physical health. Why should it be any different with matters concerning our emotional health?

In spite of the caution we still must heed, the tide has turned. There are too many of us now who have come out.

We will be heard!

By Lauren Stratford, ritual abuse survivor

Note: Lauren passed away peacefully on April 8th, 2002.

In Loving Memory of Lauren Stratford (by Dr. Gregory R. Reid)