OFFICIAL STATEMENT: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) released the following statement from CEO Delilah Rumburg in response to campaign rhetoric about women.
“Comments during the recent election cycle illustrate what needs to change across our culture in order to end sexual assault and create a society of respect, safety and equality. Sexual violence is a serious and widespread societal issue that has a lasting impact on individuals, families and communities. Every conversation that conveys
disrespectful attitudes or encourages illegal acts, even in private, continues to foster a culture where sexual assault is normalized and puts people at risk.
“‘Locker room talk’ is not an excuse for unacceptable behavior and is insulting to other men and boys across the country. We are encouraged to see many men, including professional athletes, speaking out against this damaging, disrespectful language. That is what real leadership is all about.
“Because when we passively stand by and allow others to talk about committing crimes, or even joke about assault, we allow sexual violence to thrive. We can do better.
“We all have a role to play in preventing sexual violence, and that includes our leaders. The next president will have the opportunity and responsibility to help support survivors and further the prevention movement in a constructive way. Our next president should build on the work by the current administration to invest in this critically important issue.”
ABOUT NSVRC
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is the leading nonprofit in providing information and tools to prevent and respond to sexual violence. NSVRC translates research and trends into best practices that help individuals, communities and service providers achieve real and lasting change. The center also works with
the media to promote informed reporting. Every April, NSVRC leads Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a campaign to educate and engage the public in addressing this widespread issue. NSVRC is also one of the three founding organizations of Raliance, a national, collaborative initiative dedicated to ending sexual violence in one
generation.
For inquiries, contact media@nsvrc.org.