Know My Name: A Memoir

Chapter 13 begins with the Larry Nassar case. Miller is inspired by the testimony of the young gymnasts. Noting the presence of the survivors’ parents in the audience, Miller contemplates the ways in which loved ones experience “the second ring of effect,” often questioning, “[W]hat could I have done to prevent this” (294).

Miller’s faith in the justice system is restored slightly by observing the way Judge Aquilina centers Nassar’s victims and “[makes] time for one hundred and sixty-nine statements” (295). Doing so allows space for survivors to heal and “turn[s] their ship, pointing them toward the horizon” (295). Miller states her hopes that Stanford University could follow this example.

Miller recalls her precious childhood memories of Stanford campus. She contrasts this with the lack of response from Stanford in the days following her assault. This negligence resulted in her “broken trust in institutions. Broken faith in the place [she] thought would protect [her]” (296). Miller criticizes Stanford’s handling of her case and lists the actions Stanford could have taken. Instead, in the days following the publication of Miller’s statement, Stanford issues a statement defending its actions.

Two days before Turner’s release, Miller receives a call from Michele Dauber: Stanford has offered to apologize and to pay for her therapy.