(Posted 2021 July)
Front page stories about sexual violence can retraumatize victims of sexual assault and polarize our communities. The news of Bill Cosby’s early release on a technicality is an example of the complexities we face as government in meaningfully addressing sexual violence. We have spoken with survivors of sexual violence who say when justice is served, they can begin to personally heal. But what is justice? What does it look like? How do we know the systems we work in are delivering due justice?
Statistics bear out that survivors are often failed. Three out of four sexual assaults are not reported to police, and out of the cases that are reported to police, just 13% get referred to prosecutors. And only 7% of those cases lead to a felony conviction.
There are few options for victims of sexual violence to seek justice tailored to their needs. When survivors have choices about the type of justice they are seeking, it can have a positive impact on helping them heal and restore personal safety. Victims of sexual violence, particularly in communities of color, often do not trust systems to make their lives safer; we can change that by helping victims with choice and voice.
Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence Services encourages those who are seeking help, or need someone to listen, to contact the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273. Our services are free and confidential.
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