Dear Editor: From the lens of a sexual assault survivor, I found the article headline, “Accused in 1996 New Westminster cold case has died” incomplete and misleading, shifting the concern to the rapist instead of the victim.
I am writing because I continue to raise my voice for the silenced ones and for the ones that can no longer say “me too.”
Being sexually assaulted is only the beginning of the difficulties a survivor faces. Pursuing justice is burdensome and emotionally taxing. I agree with Sgt. Jeff Scott – it is indeed unfortunate that James Gray will not face the criminal justice system.
What is more unjust is that Dorothy Darnel served a life sentence of psychological injury for a crime she did not commit, one that was put upon her by James Gray the evening of Oct. 4, 1996, when he asserted power and control over her.
Despite this, Dorothy did not turn her back on the world.
She turned Gray’s “mess” into her “message,” speaking truth to power by becoming an advocate for senior safety.
In the midst of the #MeToo movement and on the last day of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, I want to honour Dorothy for harnessing her survivor courage by making a significant contribution to her community. She was the hero of her own story.
Jodie Ortega, New Westminster
