“Let’s talk about your experience, Sarah. Behind that window is a camera recording everything you say. Just relax and be honest. Remember, your words are important evidence. So please, speak from the heart.”
Why does he keep emphasizing the importance of honesty? Who would fabricate something so serious?
Despite the room’s stifling heat, I requested a blanket. “Do you have a stuffed animal or something?”
At 13, I felt foolish asking. But as soon as I spoke, a child advocate named Lisa entered, holding a fluffy bear and a cozy blanket. She sat beside me, took my hand, and gently said, “Sweetheart, the hardest part is over. You’re safe now. Just hold the bear and share your story.”
“Okay,” I replied, snuggling against a pile of cushions.
“Before we begin,” Lisa added, “remember this: We believe you, Sarah. We believe you.”
Those three words provided the strength I needed to continue.
Through grand jury sessions and grueling cross-examinations, I found resilience because they believed me. When a defense lawyer tried to tarnish my reputation, I remained steadfast, buoyed by their support. Three years later, when my abuser was found guilty, despite the skepticism from local media regarding his guilt, I changed the channel and held my head high. They believed me.
From the moment I reported the abuse, I was enveloped by validation — people who believed my truth. That belief was my lifeline amid the chaos.
It’s painful to realize how fortunate I was.
I grew up in Alabama, a state currently embroiled in political turmoil due to allegations that Roy Moore, a prominent evangelical figure, sexually abused at least eight minors. Yes, eight.
Time and again, these brave women have stepped forward, only to face public humiliation.
The toxic rhetoric surrounding Roy Moore’s accusers disgusts me. As a survivor of similar trauma and a court-appointed special advocate (CASA), I know the statistics overwhelmingly support these women’s claims.
For instance, did you know that 98% of child abuse reports result in corroborated statements? Sadly, 73% of victims remain silent about their abuse for over a year, and 55% wait more than five years to come forward or never disclose at all. I waited eight years.
The gap between the abuse and the report complicates prosecution. It’s no wonder victims hesitate to speak up. Even when they do, justice is seldom served — for every 1,000 reported rapes, fewer than six perpetrators are convicted. Many escape accountability, and some even find themselves in positions of power.
Do you hear me? When someone confides in you about their experience with abuse, regardless of who it involves, your response should consist of three words:
I. Believe. You.
I don’t care if the accused is your best friend, a respected figure, or even a historical icon. The priority should be the truth about child abuse, not protecting someone’s reputation.
I’m finished with the naysayers, the trolls, and those who shame these women for sharing their stories. The evidence suggests that they are likely telling the truth, and there are countless others who remain silent, paralyzed by fear. We can support those who come forward while ensuring everyone receives a fair trial.
Please understand the gravity of this situation. Don’t contribute to the problem. Your response could impact a victim’s willingness to speak out.
It might be a 55-year-old stranger in the news today, but tomorrow it could be someone close to you. If that were the case, how would you want the world to react?
I would hope for someone like my advocate, Lisa, who would take my child’s hand, look them in the eye, and firmly say, “I believe you.”
That’s the only appropriate response to these narratives.
Let’s say it together: We believe you.
To the accusers of Roy Moore: We believe you.
To the untold victims: We believe you.
The statistics speak for themselves. Children are being abused and waiting years to tell their stories, if they ever do. When they finally find their voice, they should be met with understanding, not shame.
I will be the one to offer a lifeline, affirm their experiences, and believe them. I urge you to do the same.
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In summary, we must create an environment where victims feel safe to share their experiences. The responsibility lies with us to respond with unwavering support and belief.