Larry Nassar Victim Aly Raisman To Lead Sex Assault Talk

WAUKESHA, WI — Nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 67 men in the United States have experienced rape or attempted rape at some time in their lives. The Women’s Center in Waukesha is encouraging the community to take action this month in preventing sexual violence and to embrace the power their voice has to promote safety, respect and equality.

Gymnast Aly Raisman headlines the Women's Center anniversary luncheon this month as the Women's Center in Waukesha observes Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Raisman is one of the more than 120 women to give a victim impact statement against former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.

"Larry, you do realize now that we, this group of women you so heartlessly abused over such a long period of time are now a force and you are nothing," Raisman said. "The tables have turned Larry. We are here, we have our voices and we are not going anywhere."

Angela Mancuso, Executive Director of the Women's Center, said Raisman is just one of many people who have suffered, and who are now courageously stepping in the public realm to share their stories of sex assault.

“Sexual Assault Awareness Month takes place this year at what is a watershed moment in our history. With the country focused on this very important issue, we have an unprecedented opportunity to improve understanding and change behaviors,” she said.

How to go:

A Conversation with Aly Raisman
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
1721 West Canal Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233

Seats are available here: http://twcwaukesha.org/event/a...

Over the course of April, the Women’s Center has coordinated opportunities for community members to:

• Display Sexual Assault Awareness Month awareness ribbon pins, bracelets, “Denim Day” stickers, and informational materials to support their engagement efforts. Contact The Women’s Center at 262-522-3813 to request materials. A SAAM Toolkit is provided online at http://twcwaukesha.org/event/s...
• Attend Your Voice Has Power: A Conversation with Aly Raisman at this year’s anniversary luncheon on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino. Raisman, one of the most accomplished gymnasts of all time, has seen her path evolve from athlete to advocate and activist for sexual abuse survivors. She delivered a powerful impact statement along with more than 150 others in the “Army of Survivors” during the Larry Nassar trial and continues to remain in headlines today, pushing for change and demanding accountability.
• Visit “The Clothesline Project,” on display now throughout April at the Waukesha Public Library. This project allows survivors of sexual violence to express themselves by writing and decorating powerful messages on shirts.

Organizers say the Women's Center is the only agency in Waukesha County providing supportive services to those affected by sexual assault and abuse, including trafficking.

“We want everyone to know that help is always available through our 24-Hour Hotline at 262-542-3828. When a survivor makes the difficult decision to reach out for support, they will be believed, welcomed, and respected at The Women’s Center,” said Mancuso.

Image Credit: Dan Libon