Story Published:
May 18, 2010 at 6:45 AM MDT
Story Updated:
May 18, 2010 at 6:48 AM MDT
BILLINGS - This year in Yellowstone County 37 cases of forcible rape have already been reported. That number appears to be high considering past statistics, 33 total in 2007 and 52 in 2008, according to the Billings Police Department 2009 Annual Report.
The road ahead for these victims of violence can be a lonely one, but Billings advocates say there is hope once healing begins. "It's important for women to realize that it's not their fault that these things happened to them," said Sister Mary Dostal with Angela's Piazza.
Angela's Piazza is a women's drop-in center where they can begin healing through group sessions as well as one-on-one interaction. "Women can feel when they come that it's safe. What they say is confidential. They get some affirmation and support," said Dostal.
However, it can be especially hard for the residents who live in rural areas of Montana, who don't have as many options. "You know comparing Billings to any other city in other states is difficult because we are so rural. We're more like a collection area for all these smaller communities," said Angie Lancaster with the YWCA.
Representatives' say finding a way to get some kind of counseling is important to the healing process because the aftermath can have long lasting affects. "I think if they come one time that it isn't enough time, but if they come several times then yes, there begins to be healing," said Dostal.
In 2005, the Montana Legislature created the program FREPP, or Forensic Rape Examination Payment Program to ensure that evidence would be stored for at least 60 days, if the victim wasn't ready to report immediately after an assault. Lancaster said nationally about 80% report within that time period but Montana's numbers are low. "Here in Montana its only about 10%, so we're really trying to encourage our clients, if they are a FREPP case, to consider what that looks like for them," said Lancaster.
But she adds that unless perception changes the numbers likely won't either. "The most difficult thing for me and something that I struggle with every singe day is changing public perceptions about sexual assault and sexual violence because until that happens people aren't going to report. They're going to face the repercussion of shame, guilt and victim blaming."
The YWCA of Billings offers support groups as well as advocates who are available for the victims of sexual assault. Sister Mary Dostal says you can drop by Angela's Piazza to talk or schedule an appointment.
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