Take a Stand Against Violence!

Three years ago, my daughter was kidnapped from her bed by a maintenance man who worked in the apartment complex where she lived. She was threatened with a machete, beaten and repeatedly raped. She survived because she convinced her attacker that she would not call the police. Her story can be found at:

http://open.salon.com/blog/donna_carbone/2009/10/07/assault_on_an_angel

Until we take responsibility for our security....until we realize just how fragile our safety really is...until we make victim a word to fear, we will always be at risk. Women will continue to be the victims of sexual assault and other violent acts until we stand up to the perpetrators and demand that they pay for their actions. There is no shame in being raped. The shame lay in letting these monsters get away with their crimes because we are afraid or embarrassed.

With the downturn in the economy, cities across the nation are withholding funding for victims programs. I understand that if money isn't being earned, it can't be spent. However, without the aid of the advocates who befriended my daughter during this turbulent time, I'm not sure she would have been able to face the prospect of a trial.  If the opportunity arises, speak out in favor of continuing and expanding these programs so that help is available for all.