Unbroken 2025 Celebrates Survivor Stories at Crystal Bridges

The NWA Center for Sexual Assault will host the event “Unbroken 2025” on **October 9, 2025**, at the Great Hall of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. This free public event will honor the stories of survivors through the unveiling of original artwork created by local artists, showcasing the transformative power of artistic expression.

From **18:30 to 20:30**, attendees can expect a vibrant program that includes live performances of spoken word poetry and choreographed dance, alongside an award ceremony recognizing local advocates committed to supporting survivors. Doors will open at **18:00**, providing guests the opportunity to engage with the art and the community.

Central to the evening’s activities is the display of survivor-created artwork, which encompasses pottery, mixed media, and guided art therapy pieces. Taylor McKinney, the development director for the NWA Center for Sexual Assault, emphasized the importance of artistic healing facilitated by professional art therapists. She stated, “It’s incredibly important to have someone who understands mental health, understands trauma, and meets survivors where they are on that spectrum of healing.”

McKinney, who is also a survivor, expressed a deep personal connection to the artwork exhibited. She reflected, “I can see how a survivor’s healing journey is getting off the ground based on the way they’ve composed their art.” The sense of community among participants further enhances the healing experience. “If giving connection is an emotion, that’s the emotion I’m feeling,” she added.

The event will feature a spoken word performance by a survivor and a dance led by Cece Marie, who has spent the past ten weeks teaching participants to reconnect with their bodies through movement. “We’re going to see what has been months in the making,” McKinney said. “It is incredibly empowering to reclaim that sense of safety in your body through the dance workshop and through the other workshops, too.”

During “Unbroken 2025,” the center will honor notable figures with several awards. Judge Matt Durrett will receive the **Roger Collins Beacon of Hope Award** for his significant contributions to survivor safety and the pursuit of justice in Northwest Arkansas. Dr. Danna Grear will be presented with the **Beacon of Light Award**, recognized for her compassion and advocacy within the community. The **Silence Breaker Award** will be given to Tenisha Gist and Carl Dunn, both long-time advocates on the Let’s Talk NWA steering committee, who have played a vital role in supporting survivors since the initiative’s inception in **2014**.

McKinney shared her insights on the event’s title, “Unbroken,” explaining its significance in empowering survivors to reshape their narratives. “You might say, ‘I’m a victim.’ Well, in fact, you are a survivor. And I think that language really matters.” She emphasized that experiencing trauma does not dictate a person’s future.

The concept of “Unbroken” embodies the idea that attendees can navigate the complex emotions of pain, healing, and hope simultaneously. “It helps everyone envision that two things can be true: that I was harmed in all the ways I was harmed and terrorized, and I can hold that thought without having to identify with it if I don’t want to,” McKinney stated.

The NWA Center for Sexual Assault remains dedicated to providing a supportive environment for survivors. McKinney affirmed, “We will believe survivors when they come in and tell us their story. You will never be questioned. You will be affirmed and heard and seen. You deserve healing. And whenever you’re ready to take that step, our doors are always open. Our hotline is always on.”

“Unbroken 2025” stands as a testament to the resilience of survivors and the community’s commitment to advocacy and healing, inviting all to participate in this enlightening experience.