Welcome back to Good Sex at NYU — your space for sex-positive, honest conversations about relationships, wellbeing, and everything in between.

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the first episode of Season 4 features Danielle Elleman (Associate Director of Sexual and Relationship Respect Services) and co-host Sage Letella in conversation  with Hannah Pennington, Deputy Chief for Gender-Based Violence Policy, and Phoebe Rosenfeld, Assistant District Attorney, both from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. Together, they discuss what a survivor’s path to justice may look like–and how every path is different

The guests explain how the DA’s office handles cases involving intimate partner and sexual violence, describing the creation of the Special Victims Division and its focus on survivor-centered prosecution and policy. They also reflect on  recent legal changes in New York, and cross-agency collaboration are helping shift the justice system toward one that truly supports survivors.

You’ll hear how new policies, specialized bureaus, and survivor-support programs are creating a more compassionate, informed, and coordinated response to gender-based violence in New York City.

⚠️ Activation Warning: This episode discusses sexual violence, intimate partner violence, and trauma. Please take care while listening. NYU students can reach out to the Wellness Exchange at 212-443-9999 or via the Wellness Exchange app.

Resources: 

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673

• NYC HOPE Hotline (people who have experienced sexual assault, intimate partner violence, domestic violence, trafficking, etc): 1-800-621-HOPE (4673)

• Manhattan District Attorney's Office Initiate Partner Violence Bureau (helpline, not 24/7): 212-335-9373

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Stay tuned for Part 2 & 3, where we continue this important conversation about the realities of seeking help, healing, and change during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond.