Each month, RAINN features a member of its National Leadership Council (NLC). The NLC is a group of dedicated individuals who have shown their commitment to RAINN’s mission of supporting survivors and ending sexual violence. This month we checked in with singer-songwriter Trapper Schoepp, who recently live streamed a special performance for the RAINN community to show his support.

Why are you passionate about ending sexual violence?

Unlike some hot-button issues, sexual violence has been happening since the beginning of time and does not discriminate. It has no barriers in regards to culture, age, gender, geography, religion, or socioeconomic status. It can happen to anyone. I think that’s what makes the issue so hard to pin down. It’s embedded in every culture’s fabric and it’s difficult for many to discuss.

How can we all be better supporters and advocates for survivors in our lives?

I believe an important way we can support survivors is by listening to and believing their stories.

Why did you want to be a part of RAINN’s National Leadership Council?

It’s one thing to show solidarity behind the scenes, but we need to be more vocal as men. The time for accountability has to be now, or else nothing will change. This is not a political issue, it’s an issue any decent human should care about.

How does your music connect to your passion for ending sexual violence?

Music and art are a direct reflection of culture. I wrote the song “What You Do To Her” about the epidemic of sexual assault and the ripple effects these attacks can have on individuals and within communities. The verses tell the story of someone who gets away with it, and the chorus shows how we’re all affected by this—not only the victims, but their families, their friends, and the community as a whole. For too long, men have stood on the sidelines and allowed this to become primarily a women’s issue. I think everyone has an obligation to call out behavior like this.

What is your message to survivors?

I would echo the sentiments of RAINN: You are not alone. Getting support is essential in healing. Everyone’s situation is different, but battles of this nature seem to be very difficult to fight alone.