FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 15, 2018
Contact: Jolene Cardenas,
Director of Communications and Development
Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA)
Direct Line: 720.330.8922
Email: jolene@ccasa.org
Website: www.ccasa.org
COLORADO ADVOCATES AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE REMAIN STEADFAST AND UNITED
The Colorado Advocacy in Action Conference sets record attendance, #MeToo era in action
DENVER – This month the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA) and Violence Free Colorado (formerly the Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence) hosted advocates from across the state as well as the country, including New York City and Mississippi, to collaborate and learn about better servicing communities against gender-based violence.
Since its inception in 2011, the Colorado Advocacy in Action (CAIA) Conference has demonstrated a robust curriculum and provided high-level speakers on a variety of topics related to advocacy. This year was no exception to that curriculum, excellence in leadership was exemplified by keynote speaker Tracy D. Wright who highlighted the intersections of her life and insights on strengthening ally ship within our work.
The significance of the record turnout is not to be overlooked. During a tumultuous year within Colorado’s own state legislature addressing sexual harassment and assault as well as daily updates from the #MeToo movement, our work is more crucial than ever. Our ability to quickly respond to media inquiries while maintaining trust and integrity of our communities is a delicate balance. While the cases and reports of sexual and domestic violence are unfortunately not new to our organizations, the spotlight on such incidents is a new wave of attention. Our members and associated advocates realize that the general public is more responsive to reports of violence and we are honored to be a resource for their growing needs. Our coalitions are an integral piece of addressing an end to violence in our state as well as examples of hope for nationwide change.
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The Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA) is a statewide membership organization with the mission of promoting safety, justice, and healing for survivors, while working toward the elimination of sexual violence.
Violence Free Colorado (formerly the Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence) works to achieve a Colorado culture that values and upholds healthy relationships based in equity and respect. As Colorado’s state domestic violence coalition, Violence Free Colorado works with hundreds of organizations and individuals in local communities across the state to prevent and end relationship violence, and support those affected by relationship abuse.