In 2015, a young woman was sexually assaulted by Brock Turner, a former Stanford University student. The woman’s identity was kept confidential throughout the trial and she was identified as “Emily Doe”.
After Turner was sentenced to only six months in jail, which he only served three months of, Emily Doe revealed her true identity as Chanel Miller. This sparked a discussion about sexual assault and the importance of supporting survivors.
Why Did Chanel Miller Go by Emily Doe?
Chanel Miller decided to go by Emily Doe to protect her privacy during the trial. She didn’t want her name to be publicly associated with such a traumatic experience. In an emotional victim impact statement that went viral, Miller wrote: “I am not just a drunk victim at a frat party found behind a dumpster, while you are the All-American swimmer at a top university who has been groomed to accept self-centered, rewarding opportunities.”
Miller’s powerful statement shed light on the ways in which survivors of sexual assault are often blamed and shamed for their experiences. By going public with her story and revealing her true identity, Miller made it clear that she was not ashamed of what happened to her and that she would use her platform to advocate for other survivors.
The Importance of Supporting Survivors
Chanel Miller’s decision to reveal her true identity highlighted the importance of supporting survivors of sexual assault. Too often, survivors are not believed or are blamed for what happened to them. This can make it difficult for them to come forward and seek justice.
It is important for society as a whole to create an environment where survivors feel safe coming forward and sharing their stories. This includes holding perpetrators accountable for their actions, as well as providing support and resources for survivors.
- Believe survivors when they come forward
- Acknowledge the trauma they have experienced
- Provide resources such as counseling and legal support
- Advocate for policies that protect survivors
The Impact of Chanel Miller’s Story
Chanel Miller’s story had a profound impact on the world. Her victim impact statement was read by millions of people and sparked a national conversation about sexual assault. It also led to changes in California law, which now imposes mandatory minimum sentences for sexual assault cases.
Miller has since become an advocate for survivors of sexual assault and has spoken out about the importance of supporting survivors. She has also written a memoir, titled “Know My Name”, which tells her story in her own words.
Conclusion
Chanel Miller’s decision to go by Emily Doe during the trial and later reveal her true identity was a powerful statement about the importance of supporting survivors of sexual assault. Her story has inspired others to come forward and share their experiences, and has led to changes in laws that protect survivors.
As a society, we must continue to support survivors of sexual assault and work towards creating a culture where these crimes are not tolerated. By doing so, we can help prevent future incidents of sexual violence and ensure that survivors receive the justice and support they deserve.