Today I want to share the story of Amanda Nguyen… back in 2013, as a senior at Harvard University, Amanda survived rape. She got a rape kit, but she knew as a young 20-something with limited time and resources that she was not well-positioned to handle a lengthy trial that could potentially last several years. Since the statute of limitations in Massachusetts for rape is 15 years, Amanda knew she had time to press charges when she might be better positioned to go to trial, allowing her to pursue her mental and emotional health and well-being in the wake of the assault.

But soon, Amanda received a completely uninformative notice that her rape kit would be destroyed after 6 months if she did not file an extension. The notice didn’t even tell her what she needed to do to file the extension, so she had to figure it out herself. She knew the system was broken and needed reform. 

Amanda helped put the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Rights Act on the table and it passed through both houses of congress UNANIMOUSLY in 2016. She is the founder and CEO of the NGO @risenow.us and works to help ensure that citizens’ access to justice is not dependent on geography. They’re working on legislation in all 50 US States and are even working with the United Nations on a global resolution, too! 

You can get involved or donate today by following @risenow.us and clicking the link in their bio!

--------------

Follow Rise on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risenow.us/

Follow Amanda on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandangocnguyen/

--------------

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iconicwomenpodcast

& Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahkheeter/

Shop Merchandise!: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CupcakesandApplejax