Throughout April, Copper Shores has worked to shine a light on sexual violence in the Copper Country, culminating with the Puppy Parade at the end of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Despite the Upper Peninsula’s often charming outward appearance, local law enforcement officials emphasize that sexual violence remains a reality in communities.
“It is here, it happens, and we want people to know that.” said Tami Sleeman, chief of police for the city of Hancock.
Copper Shores Victim Support works closely with law enforcement partners and prosecuting offices to provide comprehensive assistance to survivors. The foundation’s services include a sexual assault response team, the LOSS team and a Child Advocacy Center.
“We work really closely with them. Anytime we have a victim of a sexual assault, we’ll call them in. They are absolutely wonderful. So it’s a team. We work really close together,” Sleeman said.
Dan Helmer, Houghton County prosecuting attorney, praised the specialized support Copper Shores provides to help survivors feel comfortable coming forward.
“They have the special training, the special areas that we don’t necessarily have the time or the resources to do. They can help those victims come forward and feel comfortable and feel that they’re going to be believed. So that we (in law enforcement) can support them in any way we can.” Helmer said.
Helmer emphasized that supportive communities can make it easier for survivors to feel heard. Simply listening to someone’s experience and validating they are not at fault can help a survivor feel more comfortable approaching law enforcement.
“Rely on those around you, help those that you know that may be victims. Support places like Copper Shores doing their job. Either financially or coming out to a great event like this, despite the weather. Make sure that they (survivors) know that the community supports them. Because, listen up here in the UP hands down we are a very great community that supports our neighbors. The more people know that the more they’ll come forward,” Helmer said.
During awareness events, attendees encountered sobering statistics about sexual violence in America. Every 68 seconds an American becomes a victim of sexual abuse. Over the span of airtime this story was covered on My UP News and Keweenaw Report, that statistic represents four new victims.
Beyond response teams, Copper Shores Victim Support provides training opportunities for recognizing human trafficking and offers wellness support groups for survivors. The organization’s comprehensive approach addresses both immediate crisis response and long-term healing.
Next week, Copper Shores will host a crime victims’ rights program on Michigan Tech’s campus, continuing their commitment to education and advocacy. Those interested in learning more about Copper Shores programming can find additional information online.
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