EN - Haarlem Breaks The Silence

Haarlem

breekt

de

stilte

Haarlem

Breaks

The Silence

Action against sexual misconduct

Sexual misconduct and sexual assault occur daily, ranging from sexist remarks to serious criminal offenses, mostly against women. The subject remains difficult to talk about, yet almost every woman has a story. Haarlem breaks this silence in a unique way through the campaign: Haarlem breaks the silence, where the men of Haarlem take the lead.

The necessity

Numbers don’t lie: 50% of all women have been subjected to sexual assault or sexual misconduct (source: Centrum Seksueel Geweld). Even more disturbing: almost every woman has been confronted with sexual innuendo or derogatory and sexist remarks in her life. 12 to 24-year-old women run the greatest risk of being harassed. Yet the number of women who speak out or file charges is rather small, often out of shame, fear, or thinking they won’t be believed. This shows how urgent it is to not only address the problem but also to create more awareness. It is time for change. There is an urgent need to start the conversation.

Posters

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Council members

Presenters

Father and brother

Music scene

Restaurant and bar owners

Residents of Haarlem

Cultural institutions

Mayor & aldermen

SV Alliance '22

youth workers

March 18, 2025: campaign launch

Starting March 18, 2025, the campaign Haarlem breaks the silence will be visible throughout the city and online. Men from Haarlem give the subject a face. Through posters, billboards, and social media the message will be disseminated: it is time to address sexual misconduct. The campaign centers on the need for attention to the topic, demanded by men who break the silence.

What do we want to achieve together?

Haarlem breaks the silence wants to encourage men to take responsibility, to confront others’ misbehavior and to have the difficult conversations. Together, we build a culture of respect.

Call to women: share your story – your experiences count

Have you ever been victim of sexual misconduct or assault? Would you be willing to share your story – anonymously, without judgement or pressure? Your experiences can help break taboos and raise awareness.

The campaign Haarlem breaks the silence collects the stories of women who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual misconduct or assault. On April 12th, well-known men from Haarlem will recite these stories and bring them to life. You can submit your story anonymously via the button below or in one of the mailboxes of our partners (see the overview at the bottom of the page).

April 12th, 2025: Women’s stories, told by men

On April 12th, 2025, various events will take place throughout Haarlem, during which men will share women’s submitted stories. In theatres, cafés, sports cantinas, and other locations they will read out these stories or incorporate them in music, spoken word, or art. The goal is to create a profound experience that enhances awareness and opens the conversation around sexual misconduct. Check out the participating locations here and mark them in your calendar.

What we want to achieve

Haarlem breaks the silence wants to encourage men to participate actively in the conversation around sexual misconduct. To call out inappropriate behavior, to confront each other, and help create a culture of respect and equality. This campaign calls for men to take responsibility in creating a safe environment for everybody.

Our partners

share your story

The campaign Haarlem breaks the silence collects the stories of women who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual misconduct or assault. On April 12th, well-known men from Haarlem will recite these stories and bring them to life. You can submit your story anonymously via the button below or in one of the mailboxes of our partners (see the overview at the bottom of the page).

Contact and support

If you feel the need to speak about your experiences or to speak to someone who can listen and support you, feel free to contact the Centrum Seksueel Geweld.

Contact about the project

For any questions or inquiries, contact haarlembreektdestilte@gmail.com