Seek Then Speak: Empowering Survivors of Sexual Assault
Seek Then Speak is a confidential and interactive tool that helps survivors of sexual assault find information, explore support options, and begin the reporting process—on their terms—available at seekthenspeakseattle.com.
How It Works
Seek Then Speak is made up of two parts: Seek and Speak.
Seek: Find the Information You Need
In this section, survivors and their support persons can learn about:
- Victim rights under Washington State law
- Advocacy and support services
- Medical care and forensic exams
- How to report to the Seattle Police Department (SPD)
- How to support a survivor with empathy
This section is designed to answer common questions and concerns survivors may have following an assault.
Speak: Your Story, Your Way
In this section, survivors have access to a trauma-informed self-interview tool that helps to document their experiences. Survivors can:
- Move at their own pace
- Choose what to share and when
- Complete the process alone or with a support person
- Download a private PDF of their responses (the site does not save user data)
This tool helps survivors feel more prepared and supported—whether or not they report to law enforcement.
Reporting to Law Enforcement
If a survivor chooses to report to the Seattle Police Department (SPD), they can email their completed PDF to SeekThenSpeak@seattle.gov, an email account managed by SPD’s Sexual Assault Unit (SAU).
What happens next:
- The SAU reviews the report for any signs of criminal activity.
- The case is assigned to a detective for investigation if a potential crime is identified.
- Survivors are connected with a Human Services Department CSS Victim Advocate for support and safety planning—regardless of whether charges are filed.
Victim advocates can also help survivors:
- Understand the criminal justice system
- Access services and resources
- Stay informed about their rights
Why This Matters
Over 80% of sexual assault survivors choose not to report their experiences to law enforcement—often due to fear that authorities will not believe them or that the process will retraumatize them. Seek Then Speak provides a safe, trauma-informed alternative that puts control back in the hands of survivors.
The Seek Then Speak initiative supports Mayor Bruce Harrell’s Executive Order 2022-05, which calls for a stronger, more compassionate response to sexual assault cases in Seattle.
Need Help Now?
If you or someone you know needs immediate support, contact:
- 24-Hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-888-99-VOICE (1 (888) 998-6423)
- Seattle Police Department Non-Emergency Line: (206) 625-5011
Too often, survivors are wary about seeking out help after a sexual assault. This resource allows them not only access to answers and services but also to begin the process of reporting the crime without the added stress of calling 911 and having patrol come to their home. — Dana Lockhart, HSD's Crime Survivor Services Manager