Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that leaves deep scars on the survivor's emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. As the Navajo County Attorney, I stand alongside the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center to unequivocally declare that sexual assault is never the victim's fault. In this blog post, we address the insidious shame that often accompanies this heinous crime and emphasize the importance of dismantling blame to restore dignity and healing.

Shattering the Shame. Sexual assault survivors often grapple with intense feelings of shame and self-blame. It is vital to understand that no survivor is responsible for the actions of their abuser. The Navajo County Family Advocacy Center stands as a beacon of support, guiding survivors towards healing and self-compassion.

The Weight of Misplaced Blame. Society's tendency to cast blame on survivors perpetuates the cycle of shame. We must challenge the notion that survivors could have prevented their assault, recognizing that the responsibility solely lies with the perpetrator.

A Safe Haven of Empathy. The Navajo County Family Advocacy Center provides a safe and judgment-free space where survivors can share their experiences without fear of condemnation. Our team of dedicated professionals aims to restore a sense of self-worth and dignity.

Cultivating Compassion. The healing journey starts with self-compassion. Survivors are never at fault for the trauma they endured. By acknowledging this truth, we help survivors shed the heavy burden of guilt and embark on a path towards healing.

Empowering Voices. Survivors' voices are powerful tools for breaking the silence surrounding sexual assault. Elevating survivors’ voices – empowering them to share their stories of survival and reinforce to victims of assault that the blame resides with their abuser – lends greater credibility and strength to the message. Through education, awareness, and advocacy, we work tirelessly to shift the blame away from survivors and onto those responsible for the harm.

Creating a Culture of Support. Society's response to sexual assault plays a pivotal role in survivors' healing. The FAC collaborates with organizations and knowledgeable individuals in our communities to foster understanding, empathy and unwavering support for survivors.

Restoring Dignity. Every survivor deserves to reclaim their dignity and rebuild their lives free from shame. By offering comprehensive services, counseling and advocacy, we empower survivors to regain control over their narratives.

Sexual assault is an egregious violation that has no justification or excuse. The Navajo County Family Advocacy Center and I stand firm in our commitment to eradicating shame, blame and stigma associated with survivors. We stand beside survivors, amplifying their voices and dismantling the harmful narrative that places blame on those who have already endured unimaginable pain. Together, we can create a culture of empathy, understanding and support, ensuring that survivors find healing, strength and renewed dignity on their path towards reclaiming their lives. We stand with survivors every step of the way.