Three years ago, at Keyholder, we began an important conversation. Tarana Burke, activist, author, and founder of the #metoo movement, shared her lived experience and called on all of us to confront the realities of sexual violence. We also heard from others who bravely shared their stories, including singer-songwriter, producer, and activist MILCK, who performed her anthem “Quiet.”
Again, we are reminded that this conversation is far from over. The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio is beginning serious conversations on how we can help stop sexual violence.
To every survivor who has shared their story, and to those who have not or cannot, we hear you. We believe you. And we recognize that listening is not enough.
The Women’s Fund does not have all the answers, but we have a responsibility to women and girls. We can use our voice, our platform, and our convening power to elevate survivors’ experiences, challenge systems that allow abuse to persist, and support efforts that create safer, more equitable communities.
Real change requires all of us. It requires speaking up, demanding accountability, engaging in civic action, funding, and bringing more people, especially men, into this work.
We won’t be quiet. We are Jane Doe.
To those who may need help right now, the Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) is available 24/7 to provide advocacy, emotional support, and medical and social services to survivors. Call 844-644-6435 or visit ohlth.co/SARNCO.