1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

As a survivor of sexual assault, I know how much pressure there is in our society to keep it to myself, and to take the blame, and to consider the reputation of the young man over my own health. I know exactly how quickly and automatically men will close ranks to protect each other from accusations of non-consensual sexual behaviors ranging from the despicable to the criminal. I sincerely hope you are stronger than that. And that you will stand up for all of your constituents, in all of our various demographics. The Rep Ayanna Pressley proposed Congressional hearings regarding the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking case present a critical opportunity for individuals who suffered trauma that you will never experience to provide their testimony and seek accountability. It takes great courage to talk about these things at all. These people are putting themselves at risk for the greater good, agreeing to talk in public, under oath, knowing that corporate media and powerful people are circling, ready to scoff and slap and attack their every word, every slip of the tongue, every moment of mind fog or rage or tears. I urge you, our elected representative, to loudly support and prioritize these hearings as a step toward justice.