In Florida, sexual assault survivors are not guaranteed to receive their civil rights. Too often, they are left to navigate a system with just a patchwork of policies, largely on their own. As reports of sexual assault have only increased in this state, around the United States, and across the globe in the continued aftermath of COVID-19, survivors in Florida need civil rights protections now more than ever. 

The multinational organization RISE, which works to create new legislation and reform existing laws to protect the rights of sexual assault survivors as they pursue justice, is on the frontlines of invoking those protections. 

Currently, a bill has been introduced to the Florida House of Representatives, HB 1253, to ensure these rights in our state. This is imperative because survivors deserve to have these rights ensured. Florida has the opportunity to pass a Sexual Assault Survivors' Bill of Rights that will guarantee comprehensive, common sense civil rights for survivors. The key rights in HB 1253 include: 

Consult with a sexual assault survivor advocate and have all communications remain confidential and privileged. 

Be informed, upon request, of the results of the rape kit analysis. 

Be informed, upon request, if there are any changes in case status. 

Be informed of rights available to survivors of sexual assault. 

Without these rights, survivors are left in the dark, on their own to navigate a broken and opaque criminal justice system that does not serve them or provide justice. The violation of these basic rights has inspired us to act.This is a crisis for the 25 million sexual assault survivors across America, and it's time for our legislators to do something about it. Please sign this petition, then learn more at our website (risenow.us). We also encourage you to reach out to Florida legislators and ask them to support HB 1253 during this 2023 session.