Foreword to Rooting Out Shame

by Jessica E. Miranda

Hamilton County (Ohio) Auditor
Former Ohio State Representative, District 28
2024 NSVRC Visionary Voice Award Recipient

Rooting Out Shame is a powerful testimony to the resilience of survivors of child sexual abuse and molestation. More importantly, it is a story that demands to be told—a story of not only suffering but also courage, endurance, and ultimately, healing. In sharing his painful experiences, Frank Root III breaks the silence that has kept so many survivors in the shadows. His bravery echoes the principles of the #MeToo movement, reminding us all of the importance of bringing these issues to light and fostering a society that does not turn a blind eye to abuse.

Frank contacted my office countless times during my term as State Representative in Ohio. He informed my staff that he would be willing to help in any way to end the antiquated statute of limitation laws governing child sexual abuse cases. He offered to testify, call committee chairs, and contact other representatives and senators to further this agenda. He hoped his status as a retired fire chief would help shed light on the issue, which it did, while simultaneously demonstrating his extraordinary integrity and commitment to survivor recovery.

I have often shared my personal story of surviving child sexual abuse and rape in speeches and with the media. These moments were not easy, but they were necessary. They were a step toward healing for me and a call to action for those in positions of power to effect change. Frank’s book is a continuation of this call—a summons for renewal and a powerful, unyielding demand for justice and recognition for all survivors. This straight-talking chronicle, with graphic details, delivers a vision of hope grounded in fierce determination. We witness the strength it took for Frank to overcome the horrors he endured, along with the gritty mind-set he cultivated to learn from them and become a better person. While it is easy for abuse survivors to spiral out of control, here we learn how possible it is to instead adapt and overcome.

As you read Frank’s story, may you be moved to understand the depth of his experiences and the fortitude it took to share them. His journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Let his words inspire you to pursue the path to self-healing, support survivors, and advocate for the changes needed to protect and empower them.

Jessica Miranda is the recipient of the 2024 National Sexual Violence Resource Center’s Visionary Voice Award. As a survivor of sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse, she has fought for laws that make Ohio safe for its children and families. Jessica was nominated for this award by the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence.

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