Sexual Assault is a complex issue with a variety of responses and nuances necessary to the individual who has survived it and the communities they identify with.  MCASA provides training and technical assistance on a variety of topics including but not limited to:

Schools

Sexual assault in k-12 schools and college is a major issue in Maryland and across the nation.  In addition to the criminal and civil legal systems, k-12 and college victims of sexual assault also have access to an administrative system within their school. Through their schools, they can gain access to on-campus counseling, academic accommodations, and other resources that are not available in the criminal and civil legal system. 

Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking is an act of using force, fraud, or coercion to exploit a person for commercial sex acts. MCASA coordinates a statewide initiative with rape crisis centers across Maryland, referred to as the Coordinated Action Against Sex Trafficking (CAAST), to build statewide capacity to provide effective, trauma-informed services to sex trafficking survivors.

Military

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is sexual assault or sexual harassment experienced during military service. MST effects hundreds of Marylanders each year.  MCASA provides technical assistance and trainings that can help bridge military-civilian needs and concerns with regards to sexual violence. Information on military service providers and reporting options are available by clicking on the link below.

PREA

Enacted in 2003, with the final standards passing in 2012, the federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) established a “zero-tolerance” policy for sexual harassment, sexual assault and rape in correctional facilities. PREA’s guiding principle is that “rape is not part of the punishment” that should be imposed on people who are incarcerated. PREA works to prevent and respond to sexual violence in a coordinated victim-centered and trauma informed manner. 

Underserved Populations & Cultural Humility

Sexual violence affects underserved populations at disproportionate rates. It is essential to acknowledge the importance of culturally responsive services for marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+ survivors, survivors with disabilities, and survivors of color. There must be a continuous effort to understand the unique experiences of survivors that come from underserved communities. For resources on underserved populations and information on cultural humility, click the link below.