Stopping sexual violence worldwide through anonymous assault reporting, survivor

resources and problem-solving data.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Global Change Project Contact: Jeni Ambrose, PhDc
Global 501c3 nonprofit based in Colorado Executive Director
MapYourVoice.org (805) 679-1921
jeni@mapyourvoice.org

MapYourVoice recognizes courage of Aly Raisman and her “sister survivors” to speak out
about sexual abuse caused by Larry Nassar and to stand before the U.S. Senate.

Denver, CO - Aly Raisman and 80 other survivors stood before the U.S. Senate subcommittee on July 24
and showcased their bravery and demand for justice. Raisman and her fellow survivors hold Michigan
State University, USA Gymnastics, and the U.S. Olympic Committee responsible for ignoring their
allegations against Larry Nassar. Raisman claimed she reported her abuse over three years ago with no
rectification or accountability from USA Gymnastics or the U.S. Olympic Committee.

Unfortunately, survivors like Raisman suffer backlash and “victim shaming” for publicly speaking out.
This “victim shaming” and disregard for survivors who publicly come forward is what leads most victims
to stay silent. “While it’s been so encouraging to see thousands of survivors speak up publicly with
#MeToo, we know that the vast majority of survivors still remain silent about their victimization — we
estimate that a staggering 87% of survivors have never told or gotten help,” said Jeni Ambrose, Founder
and Executive Director of MapYourVoice.

MapYourVoice helps bridge the gap between people who are victims of sexual violence and those who
feel safe enough to tell someone and reach out for help due to its unique option of anonymity. Survivors
can access MapYourVoice via computer or smart device, create an anonymous free member account, and
access the three essential needs widely recognized by the therapeutic community for sexual trauma
recovery: safely sharing their stories, getting appropriate help, and connecting with others who care. Each
survivor's pinpoint on the map has “support buttons” that allow the public to engage and offer support.

“We are in an era of hope for victims who have stayed silent,” said Ambrose. “The time has come where
sexual abuse will no longer have to stay in the shadows and in shame.” In fact, according to USA Today,
more than 100 former students from Ohio State University allege sexual abuse by former team doctor
Richard Strauss.

MapYourVoice hopes to aid in the viral chain reaction of people speaking up. Calling attention to the
issues of sexual violence nationwide will let survivors know people care about them so they will feel
more empowered to reach out for help appropriate to their unique situation.

To map your own voice or find out more about how you can be of support, go to MapYourVoice.org.
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