Historic front page from the Des Moines Register, Feb. 25, 1990: Telling rape victim's story

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In 1989, then-Des Moines Register Editor Geneva Overholser wrote in a column that speaking out would be the most effective way for rape victims to combat the stigma surrounding them. Calling the crime "an American shame," she wrote that "as long as rape remains unspeakable ― and therefore not fully and honestly spoken of ― the public outrage will be muted as well." Rape victim Nancy Ziegenmeyer read that column and decided she needed to tell her story and take back her life. Reporter Jane Schorer Meisner extensively interviewed Ziegenmeyer and wrote a profile with her name and photos, recounting how the crime had left the Grinnell resident in continuous fear and pain. Published beginning on Feb. 25, 1990, the five-part series would change the way U.S. journalists approached the subject. It went on to win the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for public service.

Each day this month, as the Register marks its 175 ^th birthday, we’re sharing front pages from noteworthy moments in history.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Historic front page from the Des Moines Register, Feb. 25, 1990: Telling rape victim's story