ABC-7 Xtra Sunday – Challenges and resources for survivors of sexual assault and abuse

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The stunning accusations against a labor rights icon have more than shaken up public perception of Cesar Chavez.

And it's not the first or last time a well-known person or institution has faced such scrutiny in recent weeks, months and years.

Bill Cosby was back in court at the end of last month for another sexual assault case, and was found liable for tens of millions in damages.

And around the Borderland, the Catholic Diocese of El Paso filed for bankruptcy in the face of multiple priest sex abuse cases from when it covered parts of southern New Mexico.

But for the real people and survivors behind the headlines, the decisions to come forward and tell their stories is not a simple one.

So what are the challenges the face - and the resources available for them?

Sunday night on ABC-7 Xtra, host Andrew J. Polk speaks with Sarah Silva, Associate Director of Sexual Assault Services with the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence on the complexities of the issue and the services available in our area.

Tune in Sunday at 10:35 p.m., right after ABC-7 at 10 Weekend.

For those facing sexual or family violence, resources are available from the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence. Find them online at casfv.org or via their 24/7 Crisis Hopeline for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors at 915-593-7300 or 1-800-727-0511.