IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION recognizing the first Wednesday of each April as the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault "Start by Believing Day" in Jackson County.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 19464, April 24, 2017
INTRODUCED BY Crystal Williams, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Jackson County shares a critical concern for victims of sexual violence and a desire to support their needs for justice and healing; and,
WHEREAS, during their lifetimes, one in six women and one in thirty-three men will be the victims of rape or attempted sexual assault; and,
WHEREAS, current estimates suggest no more than twenty percent of sexual assaults will be reported to law enforcement and less than three percent will result in the conviction and incarceration of the perpetrators; and,
WHEREAS, research documents that victims are far more likely to disclose their sexual assault to friends or family members, and when these loved ones respond with doubt, shame, or blame, victims suffer additional negative effects on their physical and psychological well-being; and,
WHEREAS, the "Start by Believing" public awareness campaign, a program of End Violence Against Women International, is designed to improve the responses of friends, family members, and community professionals, so they can help victims to access supportive resources and engage the criminal justice system; and,
WHEREAS, a supportive reaction from friends and family members can help victims get started on the path to justice and healing; and,
WHEREAS, positive support is critical for victims involved in the criminal justice system and can result in improved outcomes in sexual assault cases, ensuring that victims receive the support they need throughout the process; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Legislature of Jackson County, Missouri, that the Legislature hereby proclaims the first Wednesday of April as the Metropolitan Organization to Coun...
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