'Start by believing': Officials pledge support for abuse victims

Randolph County and local officials gathered to take part in a show of support for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.

The event was part of a movement titled Call for Help's "Start by Believing Campaign."

Law enforcement members, elected officials and others attended the event held in Chester at the James Brockmeyer Memorial Park in the center of town.

Approximately 17 officials signed a proclamation demonstrating and pledging support for the effort to educate people about violence and sexual abuse. Basically the pledge stated that when they, as officials, are told by a victim that they have been abused, that the officials will start by believing them.

That is the first step in aiding and assisting victims. Simply by believing victims, individuals, especially law enforcement and other officials, can help and assist with the healing and dealing with the abuse.

Another portion of the event was a firsthand account of a victim who had been abused for years. A woman introduced as "Kelilah" provided firsthand descriptions of the abuse she experienced at various times throughout her life.

Local officials pledged to believe those who report sexual abuse by just believing them. From there, there are many types of direct support that can be offered victims of sexual abuse. Before that help can be distributed, however, listeners have to believe what the victims are reporting.

In addition to the event, a march was held at Lindenwood University in Belleville April 29 to further support abuse victims. The event was titled "Walk a Mile In Her Shoes" fitness walk and was described as an International Men's March to end rape, sexual assault and other forms of abuse.