In response to allegations of sexual assault raised against Virginia Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax, People For the American Way today called for him to resign his office.

“We’re grateful for the courage of sexual assault survivors who come forward to speak out about their experiences. No woman should ever be subject to sexual assault and no survivor should ever be forced to come forward against her will. Dr. Vanessa Tyson’s story is powerful, disturbing, and credible. Just a few minutes ago, another survivor came forward with additional serious and corroborated allegations. When women speak up about their experiences of sexual assault, it’s important that we listen. In addition, Lt. Governor Fairfax’s response to the initial allegations raised concerns of its own.

“This situation is especially painful not just because Fairfax has been an ally, but also because of the historic nature of his election and what his presence in office has meant in a state that was a capital of the Confederacy. These revelations shouldn’t obscure the importance of continuing to challenge structures of racism in place in Virginia or anywhere else.

“But the plain truth is that individuals who face credible allegations of sexual assault shouldn’t be holding high government office, whether that’s on the Supreme Court or the Lieutenant Governorship of Virginia. Justin Fairfax should do the right thing and resign.”

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and defend constitutional values including free expression, religious liberty, equal justice under the law, and the right to meaningfully participate in our democracy.

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