AKRON, Ohio — In an effort to help sexual assault victims speak out, Summit County launched its "Start by Believing" campaign on Wednesday in a press conference. It is a public awareness campaign launched by End Violence Against Women International and was created to end the cycle of silence and change the way society responds to sexual assault.
"This program helps build a foundation of belief and support, rather than doubt, shame, or blame,” said Prosecutor Walsh. “If sexual assault survivors do not come forward, then the offender remains free to potentially assault additional victims. As Summit County Prosecutor, my mission is to keep the community safe and fight for victims. Start By Believing does that.”
During the news conference, members of the community voiced their support for survivors of sexual assault, including Akron Police Major Jesse Leeser, Victim Assistance Program CEO Leanne Graham, and Terri Heckman, CEO of the Rape Crisis Center of Summit and Medina Counties.
“[It is a] way to encourage and support sexual assault survivors. Akron Police officers begin every case with an open mind and conduct a complete investigation,” said Akron Police Chief Kenneth Ball. “This simply offers a loud affirmation to victims that they will benefit from a thorough, evidence-based investigation.”
The first Wednesday of April is National Start By Believing Day. It precedes National Crime Victim's Rights Week, which is April 7 through April 13, and is sponsored by the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime. April is also Sexual Assault Awareness Month. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a campaign to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it.
As part of the "Start By Believing" campaign, Summit County folks will see signs on buses and billboards, as well as newspaper, and web based ads with specific messages to help support survivors of sexual assault.
According to the county, these signs were paid for with funds the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office obtained through a Victim of Crime Act grant.
For a list of other cities across Ohio who are part of the campaign, the information is here.
