Summer
“All women inspire me for different reasons. They constantly awaken parts of myself that I didn’t even know existed.”
**Content Warning: This piece contains sensitive content surrounding sexual violence. Reader discretion is advised.
Summer is undoubtedly a fighter, leader, and survivor – having faced unimaginable horrors in her early adult life. She has taken the experiences she has endured and turned them into tools of social justice and empowerment. Her website is a safe haven for survivors — providing resources for healing, transforming the dialogue surrounding sexual assault, and putting a stop to victim blaming. She is often inspired by other women, which leads her to constantly discovers new things about herself. Her dedication to using her voice to enact change makes her a strong ally and a champion for women and survivors everywhere. Meet Summer. This is her story.
K: Please introduce yourself!
S: Hi I’m Summer. I’m kinda your awkward cheerleader, I’m definitely a quirky person but I’ll cheer you on any day any time! I like to think of myself as a fighter when it comes to injustice, those are my biggest try me moments.
K: Describe yourself in your own words
S: I think my favorite thing about myself is I am gritty as hell. I do not tolerate disrespect or talking down on anyone. I really enjoy my fighter instincts.
K: Tell us a story. Have you had an experience that’s defined you or made you stronger?
S: Yes, I was actually gang raped in college and I always said it destroyed me — but it may have completely knocked me on my face but I am a damn strong woman and proud. I thought that when I was raped that was the end, little did I know that was the beginning of this powerful ass woman that I’m still learning and meeting within myself.
K: What is one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
S: Younger sum, HAVE FUN. It doesn’t matter, people watching looking judging, who cares? Live happy. Dance wild in the isles of the Target, stick your head out the window on the highway, be you. Authentic beautiful you. It’s so worth it.
K: What does being a woman mean to you?
S: BEING A WOMAN IS A WAR CRY. It’s the delicate power that lures others into the heart of a woman. It’s intense but sweet, wild. I love love love being a woman.
K: Who is one woman that inspires you? What would you say to her if she were here now?
S: Oh gosh all women inspire me for different reasons. They constantly awaken parts of myself that I didn’t even know existed. It’s impossible for me to choose. There is way too many stories told and untold to choose one woman to be my main influence. I feel like that may be cheating but it’s so true.
Summer’s Website: Home - Summer Phillips (summeralyxandra.com)