Dr. Christine Blasey Ford is bravely stepping forward and sharing her story before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday, September 27 — despite the attacks, bullying, shaming, and attempted silencing. Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick have also shared serious accusations. There is only one path forward: Brett Kavanaugh must withdraw.
No survivor should have to face this alone. Our show of support comes with a demand that the Senate immediately stop Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination to the Supreme Court.
Below is general guidance you can use to support your solidarity and press events. Feel free to get creative and use your voices in whatever way makes you, survivors, and allies feel powerful.
The Solidarity Circle concept was originated by Tarana Burke, Monica Ramirez, Joanne Smith and the National Womens Law Center. We thank them for this powerful vision of support and solidarity.
Who: Participants! Survivors, allies, local leaders, and more
What You’ll Need:
Open space — enough to fit participants and form concentric circles
Water
Tissues
Candles for folks to hold (if you're hosting outdoors after dark)
Signs that say “Believe Survivors” (available here)
List of speakers (if you have a speakout afterward or during)
Ask these questions: Is it accessible? Is it easy for attendees and press to locate and attend? Will it look like a full space when the expected number of attendees arrive?
Engage local organizations! Reach out to local domestic violence shelters, victim's advocates, campus organizations, and other groups that might be interested in participating. Choose a color that everyone can wear. Black has been the color supporters have been using most widely.
You can also post to social media plan to amplify your event. Use this tool kit for images or sample posts.
Some survivors decide not to disclose their status or their stories. Both choices are valid. In order to create a space of solidarity, make it clear that no one should feel pressured to share their story or disclose their identity as a survivor. Be sure to explain that the success of the event doesn't require anyone in the group to tell their own story.
If participants are willing and eager to share their stories, then check in with them about whether or not they feel supported in the atmosphere to do so, offer them an out at any time, and offer support for them afterwards.
Designate a person as the point of contact for press. This person should oversee who and how press people approach participants, including ensuring that survivors are fully aware of the presence of press, give consent, understand that they have an out at any moment, and are comfortable sharing their story before they speak with the media.
If someone isn't comfortable in the event, you can always offer them another opportunity to engage after the event. Ultimately, the decision is the survivors, and they should not feel pressured or pressured to share with anyone.
Advise your event early and repeatedly.
Pitch via phone call and email to reporters to cover the event.
Make follow up calls to confirm attendance.
Send out a press release afterward, include photos from event or quotes from coalition partners, if applicable.
Be sure to seek consent and offer anonymity for any survivor stories included in the follow up press release after your event.
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