Thank you supporters!

This is an incredibly difficult topic that often we don't want to talk about...we don't want to trigger or upset anyone. Yet if we remain silent more harm is done. 

This is not a vendetta against any one person, Mr.Van de Velde could live his life playing volleyball with mates on a beach somewhere, attending intense therapy (I hope) & lucky to live his life without accolades or media spotlight.

The issue is the hypocrisy of the Dutch Olympic Committee, France, & the IOC supporting a registered & convicted sex offender yet banning headscarves or an athlete who used cannabis neither of whom attacked a child. The issue is having a convicted rapist, a registered sex offender, living or working in the Olympic Village with minors AND whose violent criminal actions towards a child does not represent published Olympic ethics & values. Mr.Van de Velde's presence, the presence of any sex offender nationally or globally being celebrated & idolized tells victims they don't matter. It communicates to criminals that they can harm & only serve 12 months & still be put on a pedestal & glorified. 

If you or some you know is struggling or has struggled with sexual abuse please know there are multiple online/text/call support centers available with people who understand, many who are survivors of sexual assault themselves & are available to listen & talk 24/7. 

Keep sharing this & other petitions demanding the IOC ban sex offenders from participating - all our combined & unified voices will make a difference.

Thank you!