YEO Network Statement on the Survivors of Sexual Assaults Movement

In response to the credible and deeply disturbing sexual assault allegations against Judge Brett Kavanaugh, the YEO Network Director Svante Myrick issued the following statement:

“Over the past two weeks, we have heard deeply compelling accounts from women who spoke out about their past experiences of being sexually assaulted by Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh. We are here to say that we stand with and believe all survivors of sexual assault. It takes unimaginable courage to share these tragic and terrifying experiences with the world.

“Attempting to plow through with Kavanaugh’s nomination sends a clear signal to women and girls—and indeed all Americans—that President Trump does not care about survivors of sexual assault.  The President of the United States demonstrating such disregard for women could have an enormous negative impact on young people everywhere – unless the rest of our country, men and women alike, stand up and send a counter signal.

“We believe that sexual assault is unacceptable.  We believe survivors.  And we will use the power of our respective offices to support the survivors of sexual assault.

“It’s also important to remember that it takes many sexual assault survivors significant  time to process the trauma of such incidents, and even after processing what happened, it is very difficult for them to speak about it to their family and friends, yet along the public.

“In order to make a difference, we not only need to listen to, but to also have faith in victims of sexual assault. Elected officials, grassroots advocacy groups, and community leaders must come together to stand with survivors and make sure their voices are heard and justice is achieved. We must work tirelessly to ensure that no one else will ever have to experience sexual harassment and assault again.“