Cheyenne Wilson, author of We Are the Evidence: A Handbook for Finding Your Way After Sexual Assault
General Nonfiction Category, sponsored by Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.
Each week leading up to the 37th annual Minnesota Book Awards, we are featuring exclusive interviews with our finalists. You can also watch the authors in conversation with their fellow category finalists here.
What inspired you to write this book – or inspired you while writing it?
After my assault, I went looking for a comprehensive resource to answer all of the questions I had. I looked for a resource again after reporting and going through the criminal justice process and I still couldn’t find one. That lack of an accessible, all-encompassing resource is what inspired me to write this book.
The survivors I met along the way inspired me to keep writing, even when it felt overwhelming or when I doubted myself. Reading messages from people who felt empowered to report, seek therapy, or tell their loved ones what happened—because they finally had the information to do so—kept me going.
What is one detail you wanted to include in this book but couldn’t find a place for?
There are so many topics I would have loved to cover because every survivor’s trauma and healing journey is unique, and I wanted to help as many people as possible. Some topics I wish I could have included are experiencing pregnancy as a result of assault or going through pregnancy later as a survivor and the complex emotions that can come with that.
Tell us about someone (whose name isn’t on the cover!) who proved instrumental to the creation of this book.
This book would not be the incredible resource it is without Toni Robino of Windword Literary Services, who empowered and guided me through the entire writing and publishing process. I had a vision—a resource I dreamed of making available to other survivors. Toni had the expertise to help me bring that vision to life.
Additionally, all of the expert contributors played a vital role in shaping this book with their knowledge and insight. One of the greatest lessons I learned while writing We Are the Evidence is that collaboration makes a project stronger and we aren’t meant to be experts in everything.
Please tell us something about yourself that isn’t widely known. (It doesn’t have to be about the book—or even about your writing!)
Every year, I challenge myself to learn something new. It’s a tradition I started years ago, and since then, I’ve explored playing piano, photography, knitting, baking homemade bread, and this year—painting with acrylics! I can’t say I’m particularly great at any of these hobbies, but this tradition has brought so much light, joy, healing and life into my world.
Share your thoughts on the role and value of libraries.
Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books—they’re safe havens.
For example, one of my biggest calls to action since the book’s release has been asking people to request their local library carry a copy of We Are the Evidence. The unfortunate reality is that many survivors don’t feel safe bringing a book about sexual assault home—especially if they live with their perpetrator. Libraries provide a safe space where people can access this resource, find the information they need, and leave it behind to return to later.
Libraries are a lifeline for those seeking knowledge, support and community. They remind us that words have power—and that sharing our stories can change lives.
Cheyenne Wilson BSN, founder of We are the Evidence, is on a mission to raise awareness about the reality of sexual assault, eliminate the stigma associated with being a victim of this violent crime, and make lasting changes in the justice and healthcare systems. Wilson earned her Bachelors in Psychology and worked in social services before pursuing a career in nursing.