Speak Up Cincinnati: A Voice for the Innocent fundraiser

By Hannah McCartney for CityBeat

In a world where the daily news is often more terrifying than what the best TV writers can dream up, there’s not a lot that’s taboo to twist into entertainment. Off the TV screens, though, sexual abuse is one issue that pierces across every demographic, but still remains, somehow, remarkably under-discussed. According to Jamie Sivrais, a former sexual abuse victim and founder of A Voice for the Innocent (AVFI), his organization fills a much-needed gap in the community to promote online dialogue among victims, anonymous or not; sharing stories is a necessary step to healing that’s made easier by allowing visitors to access support resources without the obligation of sharing any personal information.

AVFI holds its first fundraiser (they’re working to establish non-profit status now) with a musical shindig featuring 10 live local bands, a bake sale and a bunch of raffle giveaways, including Reds tickets, a free weeklong vacation, a tattoo parlor gift certificate and some other sweet prizes. All proceeds support AVFI to support survivors or rape/sexual abuse and promote sex crime education. All ages. $10 presale; $15 at the door. 8 p.m. 86 Club, 2820 Vine St., Clifton. facebook.com/avoicefortheinnocent .