(KRON) — Organizations that provide support to victims of sexual assault are speaking out about the allegations made against former Congressman Eric Swalwell.
Verity is leading the elimination of sexual assault through prevention in Sonoma County. One of 58 organizations like it in California with grant funding to support survivors in every county.” Executive Director Rebecca Fein was frustrated when she saw the allegations of sexual assault and misconduct against Swalwell.
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“To be totally honest, my thoughts were ‘this again’,” said Fein.
Swalwell’s resignation from Congress comes just weeks after sexual assault allegations were made against Cesar Chavez.
Bringing about more conversations at Verity on how people of power operate.
“People in power who are abusing their power and positions to harm people, it’s unfortunately,” said Fein. “Not surprising, and it is always disappointing.”
Original reports Friday from CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle contained allegations from four different women against Swalwell. He has denied those accusations. A fifth woman, Lonna Drewes, came forward Tuesday.
Fein says victims often feel inspired to speak out after seeing the bravery of others. It’s what she witnessed in 2017 when more than 80 women made allegations of sexual assault and rape against film producer Harvey Weinstein. Sparking the MeToo movement.
“The MeToo movement you saw people sharing on social media and in the community,” said Fein. “I was in this field then, and I was in shock and awe of the ripple effect that that had.”
The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 with trained professionals on the other end of the line. That phone number is 1-800-656-4673.