In Denver, a chorus of voices joined together on the first Wednesday in April, marked as Start by Believing Day, to echo a call for a shift in how we respond to survivors of sexual assault. Leaders from the Denver District Attorney's Office to nurses specialized in caring for victims lent their support to the campaign that emphasizes a compassionate response to disclosures of sexual violence. According to the City and County of Denver, the initiative is a collective gesture aimed at fundamentally changing the first reaction survivors encounter when they choose to share their experiences.
The day's events included statements from Denver District Attorney John Walsh and Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas, who each offered insight into the importance of believing victims and the tireless work done to hold offenders accountable. “The Denver DA’s Office offers compassion, understanding and support to the victims of sexual violence,” Walsh said, as per City and County of Denver. In a particularly moving demonstration, three survivors, BJ, Kirstie Klein, and Dea Bender, spoke about their personal experiences and the critical nature of being taken seriously when coming forward.
Notably, BJ and Kirstie Klein are featured artists at this year's RISE Survivor Art Show, displaying works created by victims of sexual assault. The event runs throughout April and is a testament to the resilience and talents of those who have endured such traumas. Denver Health Forensic Nurse Program Manager Michelle Metz highlighted the sensitive care provided to victims - a reminder of the profound impact that a supportive healthcare environment can have on survivors.
The Start by Believing campaign, originating from End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI), aligns with disturbing statistics demonstrating the pervasiveness of sexual assault. Nearly half of all women, one in three men, and one in two trans/nonbinary individuals may face some form of sexual violence in their lifetimes, suggesting an urgent need to consistently approach such disclosures with belief and empathy. "Regardless, the Denver Police Department is committed to supporting survivors," said Chief Thomas, as obtained by the City and County of Denver. Meanwhile, across Denver, key landmarks are illuminated in teal, signifying the city's dedication to shedding light on the issues at the heart of this campaign.
