2026 is off to a busy start, and we are looking forward to a warmer spring around the corner. MCASA has hit the ground running in Annapolis, supporting legislation that promotes justice for survivors of sexual violence, accountability for offenders, and protection for the general public in the legislative session. MCASA’s full list of legislative priorities is available on our website. We have named just a few of our 2026 Legislative Priorities below:
Rape Crisis Center Funding
Stop Silencing Survivors – Litigation Abuse – SB295/HB465
Lead Sponsors: Senator Sara Love and Delegate Elizabeth Embry
Protection of Identity of Victims of Sexual Assault or Stalking – SB294/HB45
Lead Sponsors: Delegate Michele Guyton and Senator Sara Love
In addition to advocating for survivors and sexual violence prevention efforts events in Annapolis, MCASA has also started off the new year hosting important events and holding
virtual trainings. On January 22nd, we held our annual Legislative Reception, where we honored outstanding Marylanders who demonstrate exemplary leadership and compassion through their commitment to ending sexual violence in Maryland. Thank you to all those who either attended or supported the reception.
MCASA is also looking forward to the Maryland Women of Color Network 20th Annual Sexual Violence Prevention Conference at Bowie State University. This conference will feature six engaging and interactive workshops, a networking hour, dynamic Keynote Speaker Dr. Indira Henard, and a powerful survivor panel. We look forward to seeing many of you there!
In this edition of Frontline, we discuss the importance of preventing sexual violence among older adults populations in the Prevention Corner. Our College Consortium article explains how Maryland’s colleges and universities can get involved with MCASA. We also discuss the sexual violence against incarcerated women within state and local prisons and jails. Our Survivor Safety column explores the value of using trauma-informed approaches when helping survivors following their assault. Finally, MCASA is proud to highlight the work of MCASA’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) in our Program Spotlight.
We need your support to continue to fight to end sexual violence. You can make a donation and help us serve Maryland survivors. You can also become a member to support survivors in Maryland.
Stay strong,
Lisae
Lisae Jordan, Esq.
Executive Director & Counsel
Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault
