For years, the mysterious and ominous “Epstein files” have cast a long shadow across the United States. While much about these documents remains undisclosed or unresolved, one truth is unmistakable: survivors of sexual violence deserve to be heard, believed, and supported.

Too often, when victims - especially those harmed by powerful or influential individuals - come forward, they do so long before any justice is served, if justice comes at all. And yet our society’s reflex is still to silence, shame, belittle, discredit, or blame them. Sexual violence, including sex trafficking, is a serious crime that occurs in every community in this country. It affects people of every identity, background, and socioeconomic status. Still, when cases like Epstein’s are in the headlines, many people react with disbelief or denial.

That disbelief is understandable but dangerous. It often stems from fear, self-preservation, or simply not understanding how interpersonal violence operates. For this reason, at The Center for Empowerment and Education, we ground our work in teaching people about the prevalence, dynamics, and warning signs of sexual and interpersonal violence. When people understand what violence looks like and how it manifests, they are far better equipped to recognize it and to support those who have been harmed - including those in their own lives.

These topics can be dark and overwhelming, and it is natural for people to shy away from them. But knowledge is power. Informed communities can hold perpetrators accountable, disrupt the cultural norms that allow abuse to flourish, and create safer environments for everyone.

Recently, some public rhetoric has questioned the seriousness of sexual violence, depending on the age of the victim. This view is not only misguided - it is dangerous. Sexual violence is devastating at any age. Children and teenagers, in particular, deserve to feel safe with the adults in their lives. If you care for or mentor young people, it is essential to remind them that there is no excuse for abuse and that victims are never to blame. Sexual violence does not happen by accident, nor is it caused by a victim’s choices, clothing, or appearance. It happens because individuals choose to cause harm, and because a culture that excuses or minimizes abuse enables them to feel entitled to do so.

With the Epstein files back in the national conversation, we have an opportunity - perhaps an obligation - to confront the broader realities of sexual violence. We must examine how power, status, and cultural narratives can obscure wrongdoing and silence survivors. And we must confront our own tendencies to look away when the truth feels uncomfortable.

If we truly want to prevent sexual violence, we must take it seriously, challenge the narratives that protect perpetrators, and place accountability exactly where it belongs: on those who commit harm and those who excuse or defend them.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, The Center for Empowerment and Education provides confidential support services at no cost. We see you and we believe you.

24/7 Sexual Violence Hotline: 203-731-5204

Thecenterct.org