Statements of Belief
Sexual assault is not the fault of the victim; it is a decision made by
the perpetrator.
Most sexual violence is a crime of power and control, and as such, is a
matter of social justice.
Social justice cannot be fully achieved as long as sexual violence is allowed
to continue.
Societal attitudes, cultural beliefs and institutional practices that
perpetuate sexual violence and other social injustices must be challenged
and changed.
All survivors of sexual violence deserve full, compassionate responses and
access to quality services.
Men and women must be partners in ending sexual violence.
Survivors have a right to determine their own course of action.
To impact the underlying causes of sexual violence, ownership must
shift from social services to the community as a whole.
The efforts of those who provide services to victims should be honored
and supported.
Sexual Violence is a public health and safety issue and deserves the
complete attention of our elected officials.