A Beautiful Disaster: Jenna’s Fight to Reform Assault Laws | Ep. 020

Jenna Nelson is a tenacious, persistent advocate whose journey from trauma survivor to legislative change-maker exudes bravery and grit. 

In this episode, Jenna opens up about her experience reporting abuse and the obstacles she faced in seeking justice. We'll discuss how she channeled her pain into purpose, leading to the creation of House Bill 247, which extends the statute of limitations for reporting sex crimes. Whether you're facing your own struggles or looking to make a difference, this conversation will show you how courage and persistence can truly change lives. 

GUEST BIO:

Jenna Nelson, a resilient single mother of three, including a son with special needs and boy/girl twins, has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful force for change. Despite the demands of family and work, Jenna neglected self-care, leading to a bout of depression and suicidal thoughts. Seeking help through her church, she confronted a long-buried trauma: sexual abuse she had endured as a teenager. Seventeen years after the abuse, Jenna broke her silence. This act of courage became the catalyst for her advocacy work. She spearheaded a legislative bill in Utah that extended the statute of limitations for reporting sex crimes against minors, becoming a fierce champion for survivors.

Jenna's path has been fraught with challenges, fear, and turmoil. As a new Christian, she struggled to find guidance but ultimately discovered her voice and strength. Despite being unable to hold her abuser legally accountable due to existing laws, she channeled her energy into creating change for others. Her tireless efforts included persistent communication with the Attorney General's office, state legislators, county prosecutors, and police.

The unanimous passage of her bill in the Utah State Legislature marked a significant victory, but it didn't end Jenna's fight. She has expanded her advocacy across the nation, confronting attorneys, state representatives, and even victims' advocates who fall short in supporting sexual assault survivors. Her recent work in Texas exemplifies her ongoing commitment. Throughout her journey of healing and advocacy, Jenna attributes her strength and success to her faith in God. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the impact one voice can have in creating meaningful change for many. In every step she credits God.

RESOURCES

The RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline – Confidential 24/7 Support

1-800-656-4673 | https://rainn.org/resources

The National Sexual Violence Resource Center 

https://nsvrc.org/about/national-sexual-violence-resource-center

SEEK ASSISTANCE THROUGH ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

* Call 911

* Any Hospital

* Police Department

* Local government entities, such as City Hall (seek out victims’ advocates) 

* Churches

* State's Attorney's office or Attorney General's office

NEWSPAPER ARTICLES/LEGISLATURE

Salt Lake Tribune Newspaper

Legislature Oks sexual assault statute of limitations bill
March 23, 2020

https://sltrib.com/news/2020/03/23/legislature-oks-sexual

Standard-Examiner Newspaper

Threatened into silence: Bill would expand statute of limitations for some sex crimes  

https://shorturl.at/k8cRm

Standard-Examiner Newspaper

Sex crimes statute of limitations bill survives challenge in Utah Senate committee

https://shorturl.at/PfMSW

Deseret News Newspaper

Utah bill to expand statute of limitations for sex with a minor clears first hurdle 

February 22, 2020

https://shorturl.at/o1fx9

Utah State Legislature – House Bill 0247

Unlawful Sexual Activity Statute of Limitations Amendment

https://le.utah.gov/~2020/bills/static/HB0247.html

POWERFUL QUOTES FROM JENNA

“Ultimately, this bill (HB247) will never help my case. Never. But it’s going to help people moving forward. And that’s really what I was after.”

“Seek God’s guidance and seek his strength and his comfort. God is there, even in our mess. Actually, especially in our mess. And He’s not going to fail you.”

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