• February 24, 2003

The National Sexual Assault Hotline experienced 75% higher call volume than normal Sunday night following a special episode of Lifetime Television's Original Series, "The Division" starring Nancy McKeon, Lisa Vidal, Tracy Needham, Taraji Henson, Bonnie Bedelia and John Hamm. The episode, "Testimonial" featured guest star Marlee Matlin and incorporated interviews with five real women who had been victims of sexual assault. Immediately following "Testimonial," Lifetime Television aired a public service announcement by the cast with information about 1-800-656-HOPE, the National Sexual Assault Hotline.

In addition to "Testimonial", Lifetime Television also aired an episode of "Final Justice," a Lifetime Original series that features true stories of ordinary women who fought back against the system and won. Hosted by Erin Brokovich, Friday night's episode included the story of Jeri Elster, a California woman whose rapist could not be prosecuted because the statute of limitation had expired by the time he was caught. Elster successfully led efforts in California to change the statute in cases where DNA evidence is available. Following the show, Brokovich urged viewers to work with RAINN to ensure that their state adds a "DNA Exception" to its laws. This call-to-action resulted in a heavy email response from viewers.

"Testimonial" and "Final Justice" aired as part of Lifetime Television's "Our Lifetime Commitment: Stop Violence Against Women" campaign. The comprehensive campaign, which has included the distribution of 2 million hotline resource cards, on-air programming, legislative efforts, special online features and a nationwide high school outreach program, is the first of its kind undertaken by a major television network. The campaign is in its second year.