ISSUES

Committed to the issues that impact survivors

We address the issues that impact survivors most. These efforts are evident in all our programs. It’s often most visible in our public policy work as we advocate for local and statewide policies and legislation that expand options for survivors of sexual harm, hold perpetrators and systems accountable, curtail the criminalization of trauma behaviors, and prevent future violence. Explore our key issues below.

Rights for Victims

We’re committed to protecting victims’ rights in the criminal legal system, reforming the criminal legal system to support all survivors, and ensuring rape kit access and the continuation of care.

Decriminalize Selling Sex

Decriminalizing people who sell sex while holding buyers and pimps accountable for the pain they cause is essential to supporting survivors and reducing the endemic harms of the sex trade.

Restorative Justice

Our current systems do very little to hold perpetrators of sexual violence accountable for the harm they’ve caused. Restorative justice can offer new paths toward healing.

Black Lives Matter

Sexual harm is both a symptom and a cause of racial inequality. Opposing anti-Blackness is key to addressing sexual violence and ensuring broad liberation for Black people.

Reproductive Rights

Affirming people’s agency to make decisions about their bodies is key to sexual safety. Comprehensive education, care, and access to choices lead to greater sexual and reproductive health autonomy.

Issues in Action

Our commitment to these issues is animated through our work, especially in advocacy for systemic solutions that prevent future sexual violence by breaking down the layers of oppression that increase the likelihood of victimization. The current policies we are working on can be found on our Legislative Priorities page. You can also learn about or Public Policy and Advocacy work through our blog posts on the topic.

View Legislative Priorities

Recent Writing From CAASE

We regularly publish updates on our work regarding key issues. We invite you to learn more about our positions through our blog posts. You can also stay informed by subscribing to our newsletter and following @theCAASE on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

September 6, 2024

One Year of Pretrial Fairness and Improved Victims’ Rights

July 8, 2024

Celebrating Disability Pride and Fighting Sexual Harm

April 8, 2024

Taking SAAM Beyond Awareness into Action

Connect on Issues

We work with individuals, communities, and organizations to address issues that impact survivors. If you have questions about our positions or want to work together, please contact our Public Policy and Advocacy Manager, Madeleine Behr.