I am a victim of sexual assault, not once, but twice by the father of my child. This crime was a result of following court orders for visitation for our child due to past domestic violence and stalking, my child’s father attempted to take my life while living under the same roof as  his parents and sibling in the year of 2012. While he has since then been absent in and out of jail since, the court order still stood in place. As we try for our kids to not rip the other parent away sometimes it can put and leave us mothers in such dangerous and vulnerable of being at risk for DV and SA. This man is no stranger to the court system and is currently incarcerated for crimes against law enforcement while under investigation for my case. His family continues to intimidate me, using our shared child as leverage to gain information about my whereabouts as well as control how I attend the proceedings for this perpetrator. The false accusations and intimidation has not just affected me it is affecting my child physically, mentally, and emotionally tremendously… As I take the stand and hold my ground for myself for the very first time and others. I am looking to send a message across the globe, we lose so many mothers, sisters, aunts etc in these circumstances due to the lack of protection. I am not just protecting myself and the shared child but three others as well. I am here to make change, for it shall be done!! 

This is not just my story. It's a narrative that echoes across Pennsylvania, where victims like me are left unprotected and vulnerable during lengthy court proceedings. We need change now.

In 2019 alone, there were over 3,000 reported cases of sexual assault in Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape). However, these numbers only represent reported cases; many more go unreported due to fear or lack of support systems.

It's time that we demand better protection for victims of sexual assault and their families until all legal proceedings are finalized. This includes providing safe havens where victims can seek refuge from potential threats or intimidation tactics used by perpetrators or their associates.

By signing this petition, you're advocating for the safety and rights of all sexual assault victims in Pennsylvania who deserve justice without fear or intimidation. Your signature will send a clear message to lawmakers that we need immediate action on this issue - because everyone deserves safety and peace during such challenging times.

Please sign this petition today; let us make sure no one else has to endure what I have gone through.