As local citizens we are raising our voices against the harmful actions and reprehensible behavior of City Manager Cathy Ball.  Cathy has used her platform to grow an already harmful culture of silence, stigma, and victim-shaming against survivors of sexual assault. Her statements not only undermine the courage of survivors who decide to come forward but also violate the core principles of compassion, fairness, and support that should form the backbone of our community.

City Manager Ball chose to speak publicly about the very publicized lawsuit including many victims of sexual assault and rape, and used the term “comparative fault," when speaking of the sexual assaults. She also, in our view, falsely categorized all the victims as having taken drugs prior to their assaults which not only misrepresents what the victims attorney's have filed in the suit but also paints blame on victims of this horrific crime. A Federal Judge even called Cathy's comments "lamentable at best."

In addition, Ms. Ball has been accused of providing misleading information regarding her knowledge of the heinous accusations levied against Sean Williams, including serial rape. Previously she stated when speaking Williams, "that name did not mean anything to me." However, newly surfaced texts from that time, between Ball and her realtor show otherwise. She stated that she spoke with the home inspector but quote  “I did not tell him the story behind Sean." This represents a further betrayal of trust, corroding the integrity of her position and undermining public faith in the city's managerial operations.

Victims of sexual assault deserve to be heard, their cases handled with utmost honesty and empathy. They should not be subject to victim-blaming or have their traumatic experiences discounted or dismissed by those in positions of power. Cathy Ball's recent actions contradict these important principles, betraying a lack of respect for survivors and a disregard for the serious nature of sexual assault cases.

Johnson City deserves a City Manager who upholds the values of justice, compassion, and support for every resident, without exceptions. Leaders should not only have professional competence but also possess moral integrity, a sense of justice, and a genuine respect for all stakeholders which Cathy Ball has demonstrated she lacks.

It is high time for a change. We demand the immediate resignation of Cathy Ball from her position as the City Manager. This is not just a demand, it is an appeal for justice, respect, and dignity for all survivors of sexual assault in our community. Please sign this petition and stand together with us in this crucial fight for change.