I am not just a statistic; I am part of the 82% of women, just like many of you, who have experienced the trauma of sexual harassment or assault in their lifetime. This is an issue that affects not just individuals but the fabric of our society in New York State. Currently, the law imposes a restrictive statute of limitations on filing claims of sexual harassment, leaving many victims in a precarious situation where justice is denied simply because of time constraints.

It's time to recognize that the trauma from sexual harassment does not follow a timeline. For many, it takes years, even decades, to process the experience and gather the courage to come forward. According to data from the National Center for Victims of Crime, around 60% of sexual assaults are never reported to law enforcement, significantly due to fear and the extended emotional process of dealing with such trauma.

In New York, many survivors find themselves against a ticking clock that feels relentlessly unfair. Many cannot or do not feel ready to come forward until after the deadline has passed. The current statute of limitations is thus more than a bureaucratic guideline; it is an impediment to justice and healing.

Ending the statute of limitations for sexual harassment will empower survivors to seek the justice they deserve without the pressure of a looming deadline. It will allow them to stand up to their perpetrator on their own terms and time. Other states, such as California, have shown leadership in removing similar limitations, providing survivors the time they need to seek justice and heal.

This petition calls upon lawmakers in New York State to take a stand for survivors and demonstrate that we are serious about confronting and rectifying the injustices faced by victims of sexual harassment. Let us become a bastion of hope and healing for those who have been silenced for too long.

Please join us in demanding that New York State set a precedent by ending the statute of limitations for sexual harassment. Your signature is more than just a name; it is a step toward justice and societal change for countless survivors. Let us be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Stand with us by signing this petition and urging your elected officials to make this vital change now.