On April 25th, 2024, Bergman Oslund Udo Little sponsored and attended the Sexual Violence Law Center’s (SVLC) Change Makers and Silence Breakers Celebration at the Rough & Tumble Pub in Seattle, alongside other sponsors such as the Washington State Association for Justice (WSAJ).
Attorneys & advocates from around the state gathered to celebrate the courtroom and legislative wins they fought for on behalf of survivors. Raising over $16,000 to support SVLC’s ongoing mission to advocate for survivors’ rights. Some other highlights include:
- SVLC & local law firms helped nearly 1,000 survivors across various legal matters such as civil protection orders, Title IX cases, immigration issues, family law, and crime victims’ rights advocacy over the past year.
- Legislatively, the SVLC, Bergman Oslund Udo Little, and other law firms played a significant role in passing a law removing statutes of limitations for child sexual abuse civil suits, as well as introducing legislation establishing a civil right of action for “stealthing,” and enhancing victims’ rights through a comprehensive sexual assault bill.
- In addition to legislative efforts, the SVLC members collaborated with other organizations to file an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court on a case concerning the criminalization of homelessness and its impact on survivors of sexual violence.
“Attending Change Makers and Silence Breakers provided us an important reminder of the power of collective action in supporting survivors of sexual violence” said firm attorney Ruby Aliment afterwards.
“SVLC is one of the only non-profits providing wrap-around services and support to survivors. This includes its work on a recent amicus brief before the Supreme Court on Johnson v. Grant’s Pass where its advocates educated the Court about the unique impact the criminalization of homelessness has on survivors. We are proud to practice law alongside the incredible advocates at SVLC here in Seattle who work so tirelessly to weave a strong safety net for sexual violence survivors. We look forward to future opportunities to support their great work.”
While the next SVLC fundraiser event doesn’t take place until October 24th, 2024 those who still wish to donate can do so here. SVLC also offers frequent training & workshops as well as a directory of legal, mental health, and advocacy resources for both survivors and advocates.
As Sexual Assault Awareness Month concludes, Bergman Oslund Udo Little, PLLC remains dedicated to providing support and justice for survivors while promoting change within the legal system. With the commitment of attorneys like Vanessa Firnhaber Oslund and Ruby Aliment, the firm continues to work towards a more just and equitable society for all.
