Denver, Colorado (June 20, 2023) – The Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault releases the following statement regarding the Supreme Court ruling in the case Aurora Public Schools et al. v. A.S. et al.
“We are saddened and disappointed to learn of the Colorado Supreme Court decision to strike down the lookback window for childhood sexual abuse survivors to hold accountable the individuals and organizations who harmed them,” stated Brie Franklin, Executive Director of the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault. She continued, “The unfortunate reality is that more than half of survivors who experienced sexual abuse as children do not disclose the abuse until after age 50. While the Supreme Court’s decision today takes away their opportunity for justice and accountability in Colorado, it does not invalidate the harm they experienced nor their strength in telling their story. CCASA remains committed to changing laws and systems to promote safety, justice, and healing for all survivors. Regardless of when the sexual abuse happened, survivors can still get help and support from community-based programs and through healing services.”
CCASA worked on SB21-088 in partnership with legislators, survivors, and allies to give adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse the chance to seek justice from the individuals who harmed them and the organizations and institutions that allowed it to happen. CCASA is grateful to all those who worked on the legislation, particularly the survivors who shared their stories.
###
The Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA) provides leadership, advocacy, and support to address and prevention sexual violence. More information about CCASA can be found at ccasa.org. For questions or additional information, contact Brie Franklin at Brie@ccasa.org or 303-839-0029.