Victim and Survivor Speaker Program

The COVA Victim and Survivor Speaker Program

Each year, COVA helps thousands of survivors of crime in Colorado. As a result, we encounter many courageous individuals willing to share their stories about their experience and policies that would change the outcomes for victims across Colorado. COVA offers a platform for victims and survivors of crime to share their valued stories with officials who influence policy, financial support for victim services, and shape how Colorado treats victims.

Speaker Program Principles

Diversity and Inclusivity – The coalition embraces victims and survivors of crime. We will gather speakers that can resonate with an array of audience members and have varied lived experience. The coalition recognizes systemic discrimination in our culture and systems.

Confidentiality – The coalition will not identify any members without informed consent.
Informed Consent – The presenter will be provided with as much information as possible about the speaking engagement and they can identify their comfort level for each request.
Safety – The coalition will work with presenters to safeguard physical, emotional and psychological safety.
Collaboration – The coalition will work with presenters regarding speaking engagements and recognizes they are the expert in their life. Speakers are invited to provide feedback on the speaking engagements and coalition.
Empowerment – Speakers are encouraged to share their story to their comfort level. Speakers will determine their ability to engage in storytelling and to the level of detail they wish.
Trauma Informed/Survivor Centered – The coalition encourages survivors’ choices and uplifts healing through storytelling.

How it Works

Participants will be asked to speak at the Colorado Capitol and events throughout Colorado. Victim and survivor speakers can provide testimony in person, virtually, or in writing.
Speakers will be offered debriefing after each speaking engagement and regular check-ins. Speakers can develop a safety plan with program staff or through referral advocacy program.
Speakers are asked to arrive 15 minutes early to an engagement, dependent on the needs of the event.
If the speaker is unable to attend the event, please contact the public policy director as soon as possible.

Become a Speaker

If you would like to share your survivor experience, consider joining our speaker program. We can help you explore this opportunity in a low-pressure manner. By sharing your experience, you can help survivors such as yourself and place a spotlight on the support that can be provided throughout Colorado.