The Elizabeth Smart Foundation and the Malouf Foundation Share Impact of ‘We Believe You’

SALT LAKE CITY –The Elizabeth Smart Foundation (ESF) and the Malouf Foundation launched a November campaign to highlight their We Believe You movement. Launched in 2020 by ESF, We Believe You recognizes the positive impact of believing and supporting victims and survivors of sexual violence. According to RAINN, an American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds.

We Believe You was created in response to the many survivors and victims who reach out to ESF and to Elizabeth herself. Studies show that a primary concern for those disclosing abuse is the fear of not being believed or receiving a negative reaction. As a result, many victims don’t report their abuse or receive the help they need.

“The first and most impactful thing you can do is create a safe space for survivors to disclose abuse,” Smart shared. “Your job isn’t to investigate their story or seek justice for them. Your role is to listen and say, ‘I hear you, and I support you.’ Your reaction in that moment will make a huge difference in the trajectory of their healing.”

There are several ways to get involved with We Believe You. Individuals can represent the movement by wearing WBY apparel and raising awareness in their communities. Individuals can also make a donation to We Believe You, where proceeds support education and healing programs for survivors.  

To learn more about We Believe You, or to donate, visit elizabethsmartfoundation.org/we-believe-you. 

If you or a loved one has been affected by sexual violence, the National Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by RAINN, is available at 800-656-HOPE or via live chat at https://www.rainn.org/. Communication is available 24/7, confidential and free of charge.

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About Elizabeth Smart Foundation and Malouf Foundation™

In January 2022, the Elizabeth Smart Foundation officially became a part of the Malouf Foundation™ to confront sexual exploitation. Each foundation fulfills their mission by providing education through OnWatch™, Smart Defense™, and the Raise App; promoting healing through the Juniper Scholarship™, Rooms Restored™, and restorative care services; and advocating for survivors through Heroes Landing™ and We Believe You. For more information, visit elizabethsmartfoundation.org and malouffoundation.org.