When I ended the relationship with the father of my daughter, we both started living in a constant rollercoaster of despair, suffering from abuse and various threats. As soon as it started, I reported it, and this process is not easy because once you decide to make the report, for some people, you become the wrong one, the "evil woman," but that's not true. I was just seeking safety for myself and my family.

Through the report, I obtained the first protective measure, but as the expiration was near, he began attempting to contact me again, and it was in that situation that I reached out to the helpline "Ligue 180" (Call 180) for the first time. I made the call and spoke with a professional who asked me some questions and guided me on what I could do. Besides the information, the support was important to me. Being heard and receiving comfort when you go through successive rights violations makes a difference.

After contacting "Ligue 180", I also used other protective tools, such as the Maria da Penha Virtual website - Medida Protetiva RJ. Through it, I was able to renew my protective measure conveniently, without needing to leave my home. Additionally, I receive psychological support from the Specialized Center for Women's Assistance (CEAM) in Niterói. Being a Black woman within the process of rights violation, I also know that the situation is more complex because, in addition to gender-based violence, I face racism every day.

This whole process has not been easy, it is still exhausting. I have been dealing with processes, hearings, lawyers, humiliations, disrespect, and institutional violence in various places that, if I were to describe them all here, there wouldn't be enough space. But it was through art that I have been able to process healing over time.

When we expose what we have experienced, we truly free ourselves. And I am not ashamed to speak out. Also because if I work today, if I have published books, if I am with my daughter, it's because I spoke out.

*This was written based on the story of Tatiana Sant'Ana.