LIZZIE HERSHBERGER

Lizzie (also known as Lizzy) Hershberger was raised in an Amish Community in Minnesota. After coming forward about systemic abuse in her church, Lizzy became recognized as an expert on the Amish culture, as well as a trained advocate, panelist, speaker and Amish language interpreter, helps victims going through the legal process.

She is the co-founder of Voices of Hope Givers, a support network helping people find their own voices. She volunteers with Victim Services and other groups to improve the lives of women and children. Before escaping her Amish community, also known as “jumping the fence,” Lizzie was a hired maid for local families, Amish school teacher among other things. She still lives by the Amish community she grew up in with her family and lots of horses.

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In 2018 she testified as an expert witness on the Amish for a wastewater case that resulted in substantial environmental improvements. Additionally she has testified in a jury trial as the expert where an Iowa man was charged to 45 years in prison.

Lizzie’s story has made international news, been featured in Cosmopolitan, Rochester Woman Magazine and multimedia platforms including podcasts.