Why some Denver buildings are lit blue?

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DENVER (KDVR) — While driving around downtown Denver, you may notice a reoccurring lighting commonality shared by several public and private buildings, which is part of an effort that aims to extend a helping hand to all past and future victims of sexual assault.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. On Wednesday, Mayor Michael Hancock was joined by local officials and Amanda, a survivor of this far-reaching crime, to recognize “Start by Believing Day,” which was started by End Violence against Women International.

In solidarity with this educational effort, partners from around Denver are taking part in Denver “shine a light.”

Organizations participating in this program are turning their exterior lights blue in an effort to raise awareness of the impact that something as simple as belief can have on a sexual assault victim’s recovery process. When they receive support out of the gate, then victims are more inclined to seek further assistance from groups that specialize in the field, like those at The Blue Bench.

According to Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, a sexual assault is committed in the U.S. every 68 seconds. When a victim confides in a friend or a family member, the subsequent reaction from the person receiving this confession is pivotal to the victim’s recovery.

What to say when someone confides about sexual assault

“I believe you”
“It’s not your fault”
“I’m here to listen”
“How can I help?”

“Denver encourages everyone to believe victims of sexual assault, and we must continue the shift from doubt and blame to belief and support,” Hancock said. “We should start by believing because our reaction has the potential to make a direct impact on those close to us, and we should make it a positive impact.”

Also in attendance during Wednesday’s presentation were Denver District Attorney Beth McCann; Megan Carvajal, executive director of The Blue Bench; and Michelle Metz with Denver Health.

Denver ‘shine a light’ participants

Denver Police Department – Empower Field lit up in blue to show solidarity with sexual assault victims
Denver Police Department – Temple Hoyne Buell Theater lit up in blue to show solidarity with sexual assault victims
Denver Police Department – The City and County Building lit up in blue to show solidarity with sexual assault victims
Denver Police Department – Start By Believing Group Photo Edited No badge

Denver City and County Building
Empower Field at Mile High
Ellie Caulkins Opera House at the Denver Arts Complex
Buell Theater at Denver Arts Complex
Ball Arena

“Start by Believing at Denver Health means survivors are met with care and respect as their options are explained and their choices honored,” said Metz. “We know how overwhelming it can be for patients after a sexual assault and want them to know we Start by Believing.”