What 2025 Asked of Survivors

Happy New Year! In the first episode of 2026, EG reflects on the challenges, wins, and losses of 2025; a year that asked survivors to navigate legal, cultural, and systemic obstacles while also carrying the labor of healing and advocacy. Throughout the episode, EG unpacks legal advancements, community advocacy, funding cuts, cultural pressures, and the lie of productivity in healing. The bottom line: 2025 was exhausting, and if all you did was survive, that is still an accomplishment. For allies, EG talks about practical ways to support survivors this year without adding pressure or emotional labor. Instead of a “new year, new me” resolution, EG sets an anti-resolution: give yourself permission to prioritize survival over performance. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to “do more” with your healing, or if 2025 left you drained despite progress, this episode is for you.Key Themes: trauma healing, nervous system regulation, self-care, anti-productivity, allyship, boundaries, legal and community advocacy, cultural shifts, survivor empowerment, emotional safetyReferences: TAKE IT DOWN ActKarina's Law NY Expanded Victim Compensation2025 State LegislationTN DV Offender RegistryScotland's Justice Reform ActFrance Landmark LawMaryland Budget Proposal (rejected!)  Trigger Warning: This podcast discusses sexual violence. See the episode description for more information. Please take care of yourself when listening.Lux Resources is a North Carolina-based 501(c)3 nonprofit that supports survivors of sexual violence through providing legal resources. Survivors can access resources and legal aid for free on our website, www.luxresources.org.Follow Lux on Instagram and TikTok @luxresources for behind-the-scenes content, episode updates, and more tips on supporting survivors and allies.Want to get in touch? Ideas for resources to add to the website? Podcast content suggestions? Reach out to us: https://www.luxresources.org/contact   If this episode resonated with you, make sure to share it with someone who might need it.