Originally published on Change.Org on May 8, 2017 By Maria Ruiz.
Almost a year ago, I started this petition in response to a horrible injustice I learned about. Today, we have created a community of 1.3 million people who are fighting to stop sexual assault and protect survivors. I try to keep you all updated about smart and amazing people who are leading this movement, and today would like to introduce you to Brenda Tracey. Please read her message below:
Hello Everyone!
As a signer on this wonderful petition, I have an update about Stanford that I hope you will find encouraging. My name is Brenda Tracy. I am the survivor of a gang-rape by four college football players. In 2014, I came forward with my story and since then I have been working with College athletes to change the culture that produced Brock Turner.
April 4, 2017, during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, I launched a campaign called #SetTheExpectation. The campaign, using a pledge, asks Coaches to #SetTheExpectation with their players that sexual assault and physical violence are NEVER ok. The pledge and campaign video can be found on my website at BrendaTracy.com
After reviewing the campaign, Head Football Coach David Shaw, wanted to be one of the first to sign the pledge – and we did that April 20, 2017. Coach Shaw understands that his team possesses the influence to change the cultural on the Stanford campus and across our nation. I am grateful that he has taken sexual assault on as a team initiative and I believe his leadership will influence other football programs to do the same. I’ve included a link of my talk with the team that includes comments from Coach Shaw and one of his players. Thank you for signing this petition. Together, I know that we can change this culture of violence on our campuses.
With gratitude and thanks,
Brenda Tracy
