Conference: From Silencing to Recognition

The Tel Aviv–Jaffa Municipality, through the Authority for Social Resilience and Equality, the Tel Aviv and Gush Dan Sexual Assault Crisis Center, and the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel, invite you to a conference addressing sexual abuse of men in the context of the events of October 7.

Since October 7, there has been a change in public discourse surrounding sexual abuse of men. Testimonies from survivors of captivity and exposure to sexual abuse during the war have broadened the discussion, but have also highlighted the social and cultural barriers that still make it difficult for men to recognize the abuse, share their experiences, and seek assistance.

New data from the crisis center indicate an 81% increase in calls to the national helpline for men over a period of two years. These figures underscore the need to raise awareness, remove barriers, and expand professional services tailored to men affected by sexual violence.

The conference will address the connection between personal sexual trauma and national trauma, social perceptions of masculinity and sexual abuse, barriers to seeking help, and the importance of trauma-informed communities and support systems.

Conference Program

09:00 | Arrival and refreshments

09:30 | Opening remarks

Moderator: Shira Kedri-Ovadia, welfare correspondent for Yedioth Ahronoth

Efrat Meikin-Knafo, the Mayor’s Adviser for the Advancement of Women and Director of the Authority for Social Resilience and Equality at the Tel Aviv–Jaffa Municipality

Orit Sulitziano, CEO of the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel

Neta Patrick, CEO of the Tel Aviv Crisis Center

10:15 | Anatomy of Denial

Eran Han, Director of the Sexual Abuse of Men Department, Tel Aviv Crisis Center

10:35 | Myths vs. Reality: An Attitudes Survey on Sexual Trauma in Men

Dr. Attorney Carmit Keller-Halmish, Head of Research, Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel

10:55 | Masculinity Meets Trauma: What Has Changed Since October 7?

Eran Han, Director of the Sexual Abuse of Men Department, Tel Aviv Crisis Center

Shiri Daniels, Professional Director, ERAN, 1201 Emotional Support

Daniel Goldstein, representative of Natal, Head of the Community Branch, Natal’s Community and Resilience Department

11:40 | Break

12:00 | How to Move the Shame Aside

Ovadia Cohen in conversation with Shira Kedri-Ovadia

12:30 | A Trauma-Informed Community

Dr. Dafna Armon, Chair of the Forum for Promoting a Trauma-Adapted Healthcare System

Tam Kish, founder and leader of the Friendly PTSD social certification

Dalia Shatskesky, MSW, representative of Association 255, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum

13:15 | Closing remarks