The Butterfly CD
Produced and distributed by Stand Against Sexual Assault (SASA), Perth
Featuring 12 contributing bands
Reviewed by Kath Gelber

This compilation has been put together by a group of young people in Perth who are campaigning to decrease the incidence of sexual assault and encourage positive, caring relationships between people. They use primarily the medium of music and culture of the late teens to get their message across -- to great effect.

“Why gigs? Because it's a cool way to raise awareness”, SASA says. “We don't want to preach but we do want to change things. You can learn about it in a great atmosphere. It's fun to do it this way for us, and for the people who go.”

One of the benefit gigs they used to help promote their cause was recorded to make The Butterfly CD. The gigs they organised featured songs and music discouraging sexual assault, but the group wanted something more permanent than a one-nighter. This live recording was the result.

The CD is a varied and extremely enjoyable compilation -- not only because of the message in the lyrics, but musically as well. They range from a comfortable ambience to louder, thumping thrash. One speaks honestly of trust destroyed: “A fear of trusting/ You who touched me/ You who destroyed my trust/ You wonder why I shrink away.” Another warns, “The bruise you inflict will reflect/ what you are inside”.

The CD cover is an impressive 32-page booklet which includes details about the bands, poems, artwork and information about sexual assault -- including exploding the myths surrounding this taboo subject. The butterfly was chosen as SASA's symbol because it represents positive social change in an easily recognisable, eye-catching manner. “It symbolises the metamorphosis which must occur if our society is to live free from sexual assault. It also represents the `respect for others' and non-violent attitude which are essential in our society.”

SASA is a completely non-profit organisation, and all funds raised are used in campaign work. This included the setting up last year of Sexual Assault Referral Centre training workshops.

The CD is intended as a vehicle for raising awareness about sexual assault, providing support for survivors and demanding that people take responsibility for their actions. Perhaps a tall order, but the commitment of the people involved in SASA is an inspiration to all, and the sense that they will get somewhere is strong. The CD is well worth a listen; you can get one by contacting SASA on (09) 380 4449 or by fax (09) 380 4450.

This article was posted on the Green Left Weekly Home Page.
For further details regarding subscriptions and
correspondence please contact glw@greenleft.org.au

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