Production house SMUGGLER teamed with writer/director Samantha Scaffidi on this PSA titled “Wait” to help bring attention to the plight and obstacles facing survivors of sexual assault.
This long-form version of the piece shows a woman waiting for an interminable time in a hospital for a physical examination. The longer the assault victim waits, the greater the chance for evidence to be compromised in a forensic exam. But a shortage of nurses often results in victims having to wait–to the point where they can’t wait any longer.
The public service film was written by Scaffidi and the concept embraced by Droga5 NY and RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE) in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Scaffidi said it was “humbling to be involved in such an important and necessary project and I’m thrilled that RAINN has a platform which can galvanize necessary change with their compassion, integrity and dedication.”
By showing the detrimental impact that the nurse shortage has on victims of sexual violence, the PSA further underscores what it’s important for Congress to pass the Survivors’ Access to Supportive Care Act (SASCA) which will improve access to critical care for survivors.
