‘Every 98 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted.’
‘On average, there are 321,500 victims (age 12 or older) of rape and sexual assault each year in the United States.’ RAINN
‘1 out of every 6 American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime (14.8% completed, 2.8% attempted).’
‘Sexual Violence Can Have Long-Term Effects on Victims’
‘94% of women who are raped experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during the two weeks following the rape.’
‘30% of women report symptoms of PTSD 9 months after the rape.’
‘33% of women who are raped contemplate suicide.’
‘13% of women who are raped attempt suicide.’
‘Approximately 70% of rape or sexual assault experience moderate to severe distress, al larger percentage than for any other violent crime.’ RAINN
‘Out of Every 1000 Rapes, 994 Perpetrators Will Walk Free’ RAINN
And, so, Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh is being accused by a second accuser, Deborah Ramirez, of exposing himself to her at a Yale University party…or placing his genitalia in her face.
Now some say that the timing is suspect for the accusations of Dr. Ford and Ms. Ramirez. Is it really a case of the timing being in question, as he is about to be confirmed to the highest court in the land for a lifetime appointment…or is it women who have been sexually assaulted and have suffered in silence for over 30 years?
Yes a person can be falsely accused of sexually assault.
There is a 7.1% of false sexual assault reports.’ nsvrc.org
The myths surrounding sexual assault are just that…myths!
Sexual assault is not about sexual gratification…it is about power.
I was raised by my mother. I saw her sexually harassed on several occasions…and it enraged me!
Some of the most capable people and professionals, in my life, have been women.
From my mom, who took adult education classes to become a photographer, after she an my dad divorced.
To my dear wife, Mary Jane who home schooled our children and went back to university to obtain her masters degree at 40 years old.
Too my friend, Jo Ann, who battled the male dominated hierarchy of SIU and fought for…the little guys and gals…and loved and cared about the entire university community.
To my former supervisor, Marian, who was so kind to me at a difficult time in my career, and who was and is a brilliant person.
To my friend and, former colleague, Elizabeth, who is constantly striving to make SIU
a better place and achieve recognition for the universities civil service staff.
My friend, Joanna, gave me the inspiration for the title of this blog by a Facebook post that she posted that said, #BelieveSurvivors.
Prior to my retirement, five of the eight members of my leadership staff. were women…and they were consummate professionals…and they were wonderful!
So, the accusations against Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh, should be examined by the FBI…who performs the background investigations for all Supreme Court nominees…what is the reluctance and trepidation…if he is innocent?
7.1% of sexual assault accusations are false…statistically…perhaps Judge Kavanaugh’s accusers…are lying?
Note: Some photos are courtesy of Google Search.
The Happy Traveler 