Sarah Hyland is showing remarkable bravery as she shares her journey as a survivor of domestic violence, and she made sure to acknowledge the pivotal role that Julie Bowen played in her life. While accepting the inaugural Courage Award from Variety, the 33-year-old Modern Family star delivered a heartfelt speech that resonated deeply with many.
“For thousands of years now, we didn’t talk about it,” Sarah stated, reflecting on the stigma surrounding domestic violence. She highlighted the importance of creating a supportive community for survivors, noting that silence only empowers abusers. “The community hasn’t shared enough, I believe. And I feel that if we talk about it more, more women—and men and just human beings in general in abusive relationships—will feel more comfortable to be able to talk about it with their loved ones instead of letting their abuser isolate them from everyone,” she explained. This isolation is often the first tactic abusers use to maintain control, making it crucial for victims to have a network of support.
Sarah emphasized that open conversations about abuse are vital for healing. She discussed the lasting effects of PTSD on survivors, admitting that the emotional scars can linger long after the relationship has ended. “It stays in that abused place of your soul, where you think it’s your fault the whole time and you could have done better,” she said, adding, “Eventually you don’t wanna talk about it anymore. You want it to be done, and that’s that.”
In her speech, Sarah shared her personal struggles with dissociation, a common experience for many survivors. “I am very much guilty about it myself… until something happens where I’m triggered, and I didn’t realize that part of myself had been healed.” Her candidness about the complexities of recovery is both relatable and illuminating.
“I don’t know if that part of any woman will ever be fully healed from that,” she confessed. “It’s something that kind of scars her soul a little bit. It’s more so putting love towards that scar instead of hating it and ignoring it.” This powerful sentiment reflects her commitment to embracing her past rather than shying away from it, a message that can inspire others facing similar struggles.
During her speech, Sarah expressed a desire to support others as Julie had supported her. “I want to support others in the way that Julie and all of my close ones have done for me,” she said, recognizing the importance of solidarity among survivors.
In 2014, Sarah took a significant step by securing a restraining order against her ex-boyfriend, Matt Prokop, whom she accused of verbal and physical abuse during their five-year relationship. Julie Bowen, her Modern Family co-star, played a crucial role in helping Sarah escape this toxic situation, intervening just a month before the restraining order was filed. This intervention came after a series of alarming threats from Matt, including threats to harm Sarah’s dog and destroy her home.
Julie praised Sarah’s resilience, saying, “Without adversity, there can be no way to define one’s character and sense of self.” She continued, “Sarah’s path has forced her, from a very early age, to take on challenges—both physical and emotional. She has met each moment with determination, grace, and vulnerability. I’m so proud that Variety is recognizing her strength and heart with the Courage Award.”
Sarah Hyland’s acceptance speech not only shines a light on the issues of domestic violence but also reinforces the importance of community and conversation in healing.
