Ensure availability of rape kits for all survivors

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The Issue

I know firsthand what it means to survive sexual violence. The trauma leaves scars that can take years to heal, and the journey to justice should not be hindered by a lack of resources. But this petition is not just about me—it's about every survivor who bravely steps forward after experiencing sexual violence and is met with an empty promise, that of a rape kit that is nowhere to be found.

Rape kits are the very foundation of evidence collection in sexual assault cases. They provide survivors with a chance to have their voices heard in the justice system, to start a journey to healing with the knowledge that perpetrators can be held accountable. These kits include crucial forensic tools that can make the difference between justice served and a crime unavenged.

However, the reality is stark. All too often, survivors are turned away due to shortages in rape kits, especially in underserved areas. The lack of availability strips them of the right to seek justice and healing. According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), an American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds. Yet, the availability of basic, essential forensic tools remains inconsistent and inadequate across numerous regions.

We cannot continue to allow survivors to be re-victimized by a system that prioritizes convenience and budget over dignity and care. It's time for our national and local governments to take immediate action. We demand:

1. Guaranteed availability of rape kits in all medical facilities, no matter the geographic location.
2. Increased funding for sexual assault forensic programs to ensure that these services are never hindered by financial constraints.
3. A standardized protocol across all regions to reduce disparities in the availability and quality of sexual assault services.

These are not lofty ambitions; they are necessary steps toward justice and healing for countless survivors. By signing this petition, you stand in solidarity with all who have suffered and show that you believe in a world where access to justice is a right, not a privilege. Please, let us come together to advocate for a system that respects the dignity of all survivors. Sign the petition now to demand change.

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Petition created on 29 July 2026