Boden is executive director of the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault. What are the biggest issues MCASA is working on?
We are working to end sexual violence in the state of Maryland. Our activities fall under four key pillars: We work on public policy issues and lobbying in Annapolis when the General Assembly is in session. We’re trying to identify laws that will be supportive for survivors’ rights and to hold offenders accountable. We have a program called the Sexual Assault Legal Institute that provides comprehensive legal services to survivors of sexual assault free of charge. MCASA oversees educational and outreach initiatives and also provides technical assistance to professionals working in the field. Importantly, we also provide referrals to the 17 rape crisis centers around the state. They provide direct services to survivors. They cover all jurisdictions.
What will it take to curb sexual violence?
Our education program focuses on primary prevention efforts, that looks at the root causes of sexual violence — understanding what a healthy relationship is and what an unhealthy relationship is, talking about bystander interventions. If you’re in an area or space where you see someone who is about to be assaulted, whether on a college campus or a dark street, that you do something. We know that most assaults do not occur between strangers. There [are] so many components.
What challenges do you face?
The vast number of survivors that there are to serve. Many survivors don’t even report assaults. There are financial limitations to all of the programs.
How did you become involved in the coalition?
I’ve been in the nonprofit sector for about 20 years. I was looking for a position that would afford me the opportunity to have an impact on my community, the state in which I live. This issue has impacted people in my family. I have a strong commitment to the issue. – Emily Babay
