A Woman of Color is a woman who identifies as part of a racial or ethnic group that has been historically marginalized, underrepresented, and overlooked. This includes women of African descent, Caribbean descent, Afro-Latina heritage, as well as those who identify as Black, Indigenous, Latina, Asian, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern, and multiracial.
The Maryland Women of Color Network is a supportive and empowering community dedicated to uplifting Women of Color who work with survivors of sexual violence. We bring together advocates, allies, community partners, and survivors to create a space for collaboration, healing, and action. Together, we work to address the unique needs and amplify the voices of Women of Color in the fight against sexual violence.
The Maryland Women of Color Network (WOCN) was founded on October 4, 2000, to advocate within communities of color for victims of sexual violence and to provide insight and guidance to the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault on issues impacting Women of Color.
Since its inception, the Maryland WOCN has actively worked to break down barriers to service delivery and influence meaningful change at all levels for Women of Color. Through engaging workshops, participation in community activities, and research into best practices, we strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment for survivors and service providers.
We are equally committed to education, prevention, outreach, and training, equipping individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to address the unique challenges faced by Women of Color. By fostering allyship and inspiring a passion for supporting survivors of sexual violence, we aim to create a network that not only heals but also empowers and uplifts our communities.
We strive to actively recruit and empower more Women of Color to take on paid and volunteer leadership and clinical roles within our network. Our goal is to amplify our voices, foster collaboration, and build a strong community where we can support one another. Whether you're new to the field of sexual violence or bring years of experience, we welcome your unique perspective and passion. Together, we can create meaningful change and drive progress in our communities.
To achieve this, in the coming year, we plan to partner with schools and organizations to provide mentorship opportunities for active students, offering guidance, support, and a network of professionals who understand the challenges and strengths that Women of Color bring to these critical fields. Together, we can nurture the next generation of leaders who will create lasting impact and drive equitable change.
Our vision includes offering workshops, mentorship programs, and peer learning spaces that foster personal and professional growth. These trainings will focus on building culturally responsive leadership, advocacy skills, and strategies to navigate systemic barriers. Together, we aim to cultivate a network of empowered leaders ready to inspire change and make a lasting impact.
By fostering these connections, we aim to create a network of solidarity and support that drives advocacy, education, and systemic change for survivors of sexual violence and the communities we serve.
Participation in the Maryland Women of Color Network (WOCN) is open to women with professional experience in victim services, as well as women from the community who are passionate about improving services and support for survivors of sexual violence.
Our network hosts monthly meetings that provide a platform for training, technical assistance, and discussion on various relevant topics. These meetings are an opportunity to learn, share resources, and collaborate with others in the field.
Membership is free, but we ask that participants self-identify as a woman of color or as an allied professional or community member committed to supporting and uplifting Women of Color.
The general body meetings are held every second Friday of the month from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM via Zoom.If you're interested in getting involved, please complete the interest form linked below or reach out to us at [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming you to the network!
Join The Maryland Women of Color Network
The Maryland Women of Color Network (WOCN) hosts an annual statewide conference designed to be a key networking and training event for a wide range of attendees, including rape crisis and recovery centers, government agencies, faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, community leaders, and students.
This is a one-day conference that provides a unique opportunity to increase knowledge, develop skills, and promote cultural competency in the areas of sexual violence prevention and response. It is held annually in November and information about the 2025 conference is coming soon. Participants will gain practical tools that can be applied within their organizations and communities to better serve and support survivors of sexual violence, especially those from marginalized and underrepresented groups.
