PA Centered

Combatting Human Trafficking

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:44:10 -0500

In this episode of the PA Centered podcast, we sit down with the Polaris Project and the YWCA Carlisle & Cumberland County to discuss what human trafficking looks like, the misconceptions of it, and if it can be spotted early.

RCC/CAC Collaborative Mentorship Project

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 10:40:41 -0500

In this episode, Jaime, the Children’s Advocacy Coordinator at PCAR, meets with the folks from the RCC/CAC (Rape Crisis Center/ Children’s Advocacy Center) Collaborative Mentorship Project, a project created to support centers that want to build better collaboration between the agencies in their communities.

Resilient Voices – Beth Docherty

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 10:07:26 -0400

On this episode, we meet with Beth Docherty, a sexual assault survivor, and Suzanne Estrella, the Commonwealth Victim Advocate, at the Office of Victim Advocate. Beth will share her story and then we will dive into the details of storytelling as a path to healing for survivors.

Be advised: This episode deals with details of a sexual assault. If that makes you uncomfortable, you may want to skip this episode.

This project was supported by Grant No. 15JOVW-24-GG-00974-MUMU awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Episode 34: Trans Cultural Humility: Beyond the Basics

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:56:27 -0500

This episode we are joined by PCAR & NSVRC staff who share with us their experiences training on trans cultural humility and how we can be part of the solution to end transphobia. Learn More: Pronouns: A Guide from GLSEN Gender Unicorn - TSER A Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth – The Trevor Project Transgender Inclusion in the Workplace: Recommended Policies and Practices Transcript of this episode Reach out to info@pcar.org if you need any support or have questions.

Cost of Conflict: The Risks of Trafficking among Refugees and Forcibly Displaced Communities

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:42:09 -0500

In this episode we explore the difference of “human trafficking” and “smuggling” as well as dive into how instability leads to human trafficking conditions.

For more information, please contact Zozan Kucukaydin: zkucukaydin@pcar-respecttogether.org

SPARCing Conversations | Stalking Part 2

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 08:51:42 -0500

Today, we sit down with Julia Holtemeyer from SPARC to take a deeper dive into Stalking behaviors, definitions, and family/friend tips for survivors of stalking.

SPARC (Stalking Prevention, Awareness, & Resource Center) is a

federally funded project providing education and resources about the crime of stalking. SPARC aims to enhance the response to stalking by educating the professionals tasked with keeping stalking victims safe and holding offenders accountable. To stay up-to-date on SPARC’s resources and offerings, follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter) @FollowUsLegally and/or subscribe to our quarterly newsletter. SPARC does not provide direct services to victims. We recommend that stalking victims work with a local victim advocate, and the Victim Connect hotline can help connect victims with one. Local victim advocates can help plan for safety, discuss legal options, and connect victims with additional services. Victim Connect can be contacted at https://victimconnect.org/ for online messaging and information, and by phone at 1-855-484-2846. Local domestic violence and sexual assault support services/organizations often work with stalking victims/survivors, even when those victimizations are not part of the stalking. Unfortunately, there are no hotlines and few support service organizations that specifically work with victims/survivors of stalking. The list below includes specific resources mentioned in the podcast and links to learn more about stalking: · Documentation Log: Sample log to help track stalking incidents · Safety Planning Strategies: Considerations for safety planning with stalking victims · Identifying Stalking Behaviors: Specific questions to help identify stalking behaviors · Media portrayals of stalking: More information about how movies and TV portray stalking · Awareness Videos: Short videos on a variety of topics around stalking · Supporting Friends and Loved Ones Experiencing Stalking: Resources to help support loved ones being stalked · National Stalking Awareness Month: January 2025 is the 21st annual National Stalking Awareness Month, help us raise awareness this year and make it the loudest one yet · Resources for Professionals: Guides, checklists, tools for professionals supporting stalking victims and holding offenders accountable (victim service providers, law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, corrections, campus professionals, and more) · Stalking & Harassment Assessment & Risk Profile (SHARP): Free, online risk assessment tool for stalking · Recorded SPARC Trainings: Dive deeper and learn more about stalking by watching/listening to a recorded webinar training · Safety Net Project: Learn more about technology safety and privacy, including safety tips, information, and privacy strategies for survivors. If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking behaviors and is in need of help, in Pennsylvania go to PCAR’s website www.pcar.org and click on the tab Find help in PA or call 888-772-7227; outside Pennsylvania go to www.rainn.org or call 800-656-4073.

Stalking Part 1

Mon, 06 May 2024 08:49:28 -0400

In this episode, we're joined by Jaime Cypher, PCAR's Children's Advocacy Coordinator, to discuss stalking. Listen along as Jaime discusses what stalking is, shares a recent experience of stalking after an event, and how bystanders can help and support when we see stalking happen.

https://www.stopstalkingus.com/ https://defendyourself.org/ https://www.stalkingawareness.org/stalking-brochure/ https://www.stalkingawareness.org/documentation-log/

What is a Doula? With Marli Mayon

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 13:24:19 -0500

This episode we are joined by Marli Mayon, Training Projects Coordinator at PCAR, to learn about doulas. Marli tells us what doulas are, the different types of doulas, and how they can provide a trauma informed approach to the birthing experience. Marli also discusses the connect between doulas, reproductive justice, and the sexual violence movement.

DONA International -- https://www.dona.org/ and Dauphin County Doulas -- https://www.dauphincountydoulas.com/

The Connection Between Reproductive Justice and Sexual Violence

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:09:18 -0400

This episode we are joined by Marli Mayon, Training Projects Coordinator at PCAR. Marli discusses the history of reproductive justice, how it connects to the sexual violence movement, and ways people can promote and handle pushback about reproductive justice. Marli also provides listeners with resources to learn more.

Show Notes

Sister Song -- https://www.sistersong.net/

Killing the Black Body by Dorothy E. Roberts -- https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/155575/killing-the-black-body-by-dorothy-roberts/

We Testify on Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/wetestify/?hl=en

Planned Parenthood -- https://www.plannedparenthood.org/

Sex Ed is a Reproductive Justice Issue -- https://urge.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Sex-Ed-RJ-Fact-Sheet.pdf

Victim Blaming and Selective Compassion

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:24:38 -0400

In this episode, we discuss victim blaming, how this impacts survivors of sexual violence, and why people victim blame. We also discuss what selective compassion is and how this relates to the work we do with victims of sexual violence. We discuss how victim blaming and selective compassion are harmful and how we can do better.

To find a local rape crisis center in PA, call 1-888-772-7227 or visit https://pcar.org/help-pa/locations

Learn More:

Organizational Assessments with Tina Lopes and Barb Thomas

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 13:32:25 -0500

In this two-part episode, we talk with Tina Lopes and Barb Thomas, the authors of Dancing on Live Embers: Challenging Racism in Organizations. Tina and Barb highlight how to utilize and improve organizational assessments to measure anti-racism efforts in non-profit and anti-sexual violence organizations.

You can learn more about Tina and the book at tinalopes.com. Other works from Barb can be found through Between the Lines Publications.

Learn More:

PA Centered: Dancing on Live Embers with Tina Lopes and Barb Thomas –
- Part 1/Episode 8 - https://pacentered.podbean.com/e/8/
- Part 2/Episode 9 - https://pacentered.podbean.com/e/episode-8dancing-on-live-embers-with-tina-lopes-and-barb-thomas-%e2%80%93-part-2/
PCAR’s Organizational Assessment (adapted from Dancing on Live Embers) - 2020 Org Assessment Blank Version found here: S:\Diversity\BACH Workgroup\Org Assessment\2020 Org Assessment Blank Version
Racism in the Movement by PCAR’s Management Staff - https://pcar.org/blog/racism-movement

How the Mainstream Movement Against Gender-Based Violence Fails Black Workers and Survivors - https://www.motherjones.com/crime-justice/2022/03/racism-domestic-violence-sexual-assault-movement-anti-me-too-black/

A trailblazer: Getting to Know Rep. Joanna McClinton, Democratic Leader of Pennsylvania’s State House

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 14:14:37 -0500

Join us this week as we speak with Representative Joanna McClinton, Democratic Leader of Pennsylvania’s State House.

Representative McClinton has served as a member of Pennsylvania House of Representatives since 2015, representing the 191st State House District, which includes parts of Western and Southwestern Philadelphia, Yeadon, and Darby.

Representative McClinton has worked as an attorney and policymaker for a decade. She’s a historic trailblazer, passionate advocate, and dedicated public servant.

In 2015, Rep McClinton was the first woman ever to be elected from her district to the State House. Three years later, she became the first woman and first black person in Pennsylvania’s History to serve as Chair of the State House Democratic Caucus. In 2020, Representative McClinton became the first woman elected to serve as Democratic Leader of Pennsylvania’s State House, the oldest legislative body in the United States.

Learn more:

PCAR legislative priorities

Visit Rep. Joanna McClinton's website

History You Should Know: Claudette Colvin

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 09:55:37 -0500

In this episode of History You Should Know, you will learn about 15-year-old Claudette Colvin, who refused to give up her seat on the bus six months before Rosa Parks would do the same. These actions contributed to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which has gone down in history as the first large-scale US demonstration against segregation.

A grandmother’s influence: Getting to know Rep. Donna Bullock, chair of the PA Legislative Black Caucus

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:19:45 -0500

Join us this week as we speak with Representative Donna Bullock, a member of Pennsylvania House of Representatives representing the 195th Legislative District, which includes parts of North and West Philadelphia.

Representative Bullock is an attorney, mother, wife, and a tireless public servant, who is committed to supporting working families through legislative initiatives that fund public education, create jobs, and build healthy, sustainable communities. She is an advocate for equal pay, an increased minimum wage, clean energy and environmental justice, quality public schools and pre-k education, and sustainable community development.

Learn more:

Visit Rep. Bullock’s House of Representatives Member page

PCAR legislative priorities

Episode 40: Teen Dating Violence Policies

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 09:33:34 -0500

This episode we are joined by the Women’s Resource Center to learn about a project they did looking at the state of teen dating violence (TDV) policies in public school districts. Listen now to learn how you can utilize the scorecard they created to improve TDV policies in your own schools!

Learn More:

Break the Cycle - Safe Schools Model Policy

Episode 39: The Role of Children’s Advocacy Centers & Child Medical Exams

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 10:14:21 -0500

In this episode, we are joined by three experts who share with us the role of Children's Advocacy Centers (CAC) and debunk some myths about what a child medical exam is actually like. We also discuss the importance of collaboration between rape crisis centers and CACs, and how this process can benefit child survivors and their families.

To report suspected child abuse in PA, call ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313.

Learn More:

Episode 38- PA State Leadership Team

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 10:48:09 -0500

Episode Description: This episode we are joined by members of the State Leadership Team (SLT) to learn more about the Pennsylvania Prevention State Action Plan. The SLT is a multi-disciplinary action team that works to prevent intimate partner violence across the Commonwealth.

Learn more:

PCADV Prevention State Action Plan
PCADV's Prevention Statewide Leadership Team Releases Bold Five-Year State Action Plan for Preventing Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania
State Action Planning and Coalition Building to Prevent Sexual and Intimate Partner Violence
Domestic Violence Center of Chester County
Contact Kristen Herman to learn more about the SLT at kherman@pcadv.org

Episode 37: Creating Safer Spaces with Consent Culture Initiative

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 09:20:33 -0500

Episode Description: This episode we are joined by Gina McGrath, CEO and Founder of Consent Culture Initiative (CCI). Gina shares with us how CCI empowers folks to create cultures of consent, respect, and accountability -- and how you can get involved with their Consent Action Team!

Learn more:

Episode 36: Pennsylvania Health Law Project

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 18:31:05 -0500

Episode Description: This episode we are joined by the Pennsylvania Health Law Project (PHLP) to learn how they help people access medical assistance. PHLP is a statewide, nonprofit legal organization devoted to helping low-income folks, people with disabilities, the immigrant community, and survivors of crime gain access to public health coverage and services.

Learn more:

Pennsylvania Health Law Project
Call the Helpline (1-800-274-3258) on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Email PHLP at staff@phlp.org
Webinar Recording

Episode 35: Supporting Victims of Trokosi

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 17:00:20 -0400

Episode Description: This episode we are joined by Rovaughna Richardson, an international ministries missionary and social worker, who shares with us the work she is doing in Ghana with young women who have been victims of a cultural practice called Trokosi, a form of human trafficking.

Learn More:

Introducing Policy in Focus

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 12:54:00 -0400

When the conversation turns to legislation, public policy, or politics, do you ever feel like you’re out of the loop? Or maybe you’re a real news junkie and would love to learn more about the policies that affect survivors and the sexual violence advocacy community? With Policy in Focus, we’ve got you covered! Tune in to our pilot episode, where PCAR’s Policy Director, Donna Greco, and Policy and Communications Specialist, Kelsey Myers, tell you what you can expect out of this exciting new series on PA Centered.

Learn More:

View our legislative agenda
Transcript of this episode
Reach out to info@pcar.org if you need any support or have questions.

Episode 33: Mindfulness & Prevention

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400

This episode we learn about how the practice of mindfulness can be used as a prevention strategy. We are joined by Brittany Leach from Women In Need, who tells us about Mindful Beings, a new program that helps teachers implement mindfulness practices into the classroom and daily routine in order to increase self-awareness, reduce conflict, and prevent violence.

Episode 32: New Projects from End Rape On Campus

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400

This episode we are joined by Sarah McPherson, Program Manager at End Rape on Campus, to learn about three of their new projects: Speaker Series, Campus Accountability Map, and Student Survivor Caucus. Listen now to learn how you can get involved!

Links:

End Rape on Campus (EROC)
Centering the Margins Framework
Speaker Series
Double Red Zone
The Hunting Ground documentary
Follow EROC on Social Media - Facebook, Instagram & Twitter
Transcript of this episode

Episode 31: Student Speech in the 21st Century

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

This episode we are joined by PCAR staff attorneys to learn about a recent U.S. Supreme Court Case, Mahanoy City School District vs. B.L., and how this decision about student speech might affect survivors.

Learn more:

Episode 30: Dignity in Difference: Intersections, Privilege, and Making Change with LaQuisha Anthony

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 00:00:00 -0400

This episode we are joined by LaQuisha Anthony from V.O.I.C.E and WOAR. LaQuisha was one of our keynote speakers at PCAR’s 2021 virtual conference, and is the recipient of the NSVRC’s 2021 Visionary Voice Award in Pennsylvania. LaQuisha helps us examine the intersections of sexual violence and oppression, how privilege shows up in our work, and what it can look like to be a change agent.

To learn more about V.O.I.C.E, visit www.asurvivorsvoice.org or follow them on social media at @asurvivorsvoice.

To get in touch with V.O.I.C.E, call 215-792-3163 or email info@asurvivorsvoice.org. Follow LaQuisha on Instagram @iam_thevoice. You can also contact WOAR - Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence at 215-985-3333 for immediate assistance.

Learn more:

Episode 29: What’s the LINK?: Abuse of Animals and Humans

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 00:00:00 -0400

This episode explores the connection between abuse of animals and abuse of humans. We are joined by Cathleen Palm from the Center for Children’s Justice, Amy Kaunas from the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, and Corporal Spada from the Pennsylvania State Police, who introduce us to the KeystoneLINK Coalition.

Learn more:

KeystoneLINK Coalition website
Animal Welfare Institute: Safe Havens Mapping Project
National Link Coalition
Libre’s Law in PA
Report abuse through ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313
Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
Transcript of this episode.

Episode 28: Healthcare is a Right: Midwifery and Sexual Violence

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we are joined by Certified Nurse Midwife Sameerah Shareef, who is also the Medical Director of Michigan State University Sexual Assault Healthcare Program. Sameerah shares with us her vast experience over the years and how midwives can support pregnant survivors.

Learn more:

Episode 27: A Podcast About Podcasts: Celebrating One Year of PA Centered & Resource On the Go

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

As both PCAR and NSVRC’s podcasts approach the milestone of one year of recording and sharing episodes, we take listeners behind the scenes to discuss what it takes to launch a podcast and what we’ve learned through this process. Join us for our first joint episode!

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 26: Lessons Learned from the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Thu, 20 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

During this episode, we hear from Danielle M. Conway, Dean and Donald J. Farage Professor of Law at Penn State Dickinson Law. We learn about the role of Black women in the suffrage movement, how we can use history to better understand our world today, and action steps we can take in creating anti-racist institutions.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 25: How Can We Serve Pregnant Survivors?

Thu, 06 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

This episode we are joined by Dr. Phyllis Sharps from Johns Hopkins University. We learn about maternal and child health, and the effects of intimate partner violence on pregnant women, infants, and very young children.

History You Should Know: Nicole Pittman

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Nicole Pittman, an attorney and national expert working to end child sexual abuse and terminate the practice of registering children as sex offenders.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Harriet Ann Jacobs

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Harriet Ann Jacobs, an enslaved women who published the book, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, describing the years of sexual abuse she survived at the hands of the white man who enslaved her until she escaped. Her writings raised awareness within the abolitionist movement about the sexual exploitation of enslaved women.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Aishah Shahidah Simmons

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Aishah Shahidah Simmons, a survivor, filmmaker and an award-winning Black feminist lesbian cultural worker, who, for over 25-years, has examined the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and sexual violence.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Audre Lorde

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Audre Lorde, a survivor who described herself as a “black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet.”

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 24: Keystone Crisis Intervention Team

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

During this episode, we are joined by members of the Keystone Crisis Intervention Team, or KCIT to learn more about how they support communities after trauma occurs. Learn more about how you can get involved or contact KCIT for your community at kcitpa.org.

Contact KCIT:

Visit org
Email Donna, Melissa or info@kcitpa.org
Call the 24/7 hotline at 855-767-5248

Learn more about becoming a volunteer here. Learn more about training offered by KCIT here.

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Mariame Kaba

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Mariame Kaba -- an organizer, educator and curator whose work focuses on ending violence, dismantling the prison industrial complex, transformative justice, and supporting youth leadership development.

Learn more:

· Being MK - Mariame Kaba's Personal Website

· Project NIA

· Interrupting Criminalization

· Survived and Punished

· Just Practice Collaborative

· Hope Is a Discipline: Mariame Kaba on Dismantling the Carceral State

· Is it time to reimagine justice and accountability for sexual misconduct?

· From “Me Too” to “All of Us”: Organizing to End Sexual Violence, Without Prisons

· Reimagining Justice: An Interview with Mariame Kaba

· Mariame Kaba: Everything Worthwhile Is Done With Other People

· Mariame Kaba wants us to imagine a future without prisons

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: The Combahee River Collective

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about The Combahee River Collective, who are best known for publishing the Combahee River Collective Statement in 1977. The Collective used an approach to community organizing that centered the most marginalized group in their liberation work, and laid the foundation for the theory of intersectionality.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 23: Everything You Need to Know About SAAM 2021 from NSVRC’s Resource On the Go

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This episode is from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center’s podcast, Resource on the Go. During this episode, NSVRC staff explore this year’s campaign, We Can Build Safe Online Spaces, and share resources and ideas about how to get involved during SAAM.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Loretta Ross

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Loretta J. Ross, a powerful advocate who is an award-winning, nationally recognized expert on racial justice, women’s rights, reproductive justice, and human rights.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Ida B. Wells-Barnett

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 08:15:57 -0400

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Ida B. Wells-Barnett, an investigative journalist, educator, and early leader in the civil rights movement, most known for her organizing of anti-lynching campaigns.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 22: Overcoming barriers and bias with Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Angelita Olowu

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0400

During this episode, we are joined by Forensic Nursing Specialist, Angelita Olowu from the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN), to hear about her experience as a Black Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). Angelita shares practical suggestions about how to diversify the forensic nursing field and support people of color in these roles, in order to provide the best level of care for survivors.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Recy Taylor & Rosa Parks

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 00:04:00 -0500

In this episode of History You Should Know, we highlight Recy Taylor and Rosa Parks. Most people know about Rosa Parks’ role in the civil rights movement, but don’t know about her role as a sexual assault investigator, where she fought for justice for many survivors, including Recy Taylor.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Tarana Burke

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo Movement. Tarana is a survivor, advocate, activist, and community organizer who continues to make history and inspire us.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 21: Workplace Sexual Harassment

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Do you know what your options are if you’ve been sexually harassed at work? In this episode, we learn from Staff Attorneys Konrad Jarzyna and Lisa Matukaitis about your rights and the steps you can take if you’ve experienced harassment while on the job. For confidential and legal assistance, contact PCAR’s Sexual Violence Legal Assistance Project (SVLAP) at 717-901-6784.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Celia & Joan Little

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about two important women and the significance of their court cases. Celia, an enslaved Black woman who was convicted of murdering her slave owner, and Joan Little, the first woman in US history to be acquitted after using deadly force to resist sexual assault.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Memphis Riot Survivors

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of History You Should Know, we learn about the Memphis Riots of 1866, including the stories of two survivors, Lucy Smith and Frances Thompson.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

History You Should Know: Anita Hill & Kimberlé Crenshaw

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of History You Should Know, we highlight Anita Hill and Kimberlé Crenshaw. Many people know about both of these extraordinary women, but during this episode we learn about how they crossed paths during the 1991 Supreme Court Nomination Hearings of Justice Clarence Thomas.

Learn more:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 20: Reaching Youth via Social Media

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

This episode we are joined by Family Support Line and Fiore Design to learn how they created and launched the first public awareness campaign in Pennsylvania aimed to reach children and youth. They share the goals of the campaign, the process, setbacks, and lessons learned along the way, and how it felt to pioneer something that had never been done before.

Learn more about Family Support Line by visiting their website. View the public awareness campaign by visiting their Facebook and Instagram pages. Check out their blog post about Child Sexual Abuse: The Harsh Realities of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Visit Fiore Design to get in touch with Karen, or check out their Facebook page.

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 19: Coming Soon: History You Should Know

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Surprise! PCAR is starting a new series of mini-episodes called History You Should Know. Over the next few months, this series will celebrate and highlight the stories of the people and events that advanced the anti-sexual violence movement. This introduction to the series explores the complicated history of how stories from our movement are told.

To access the History and Philosophy course, sign in or create a free account at campus.nsvrc.org.

For more information about Black History Month, check out these resources:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 18: The Connection Between Anti-Blackness and Sexual Violence

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0500

This episode we are joined by Damary Rodriguez, Language Access Coordinator at PCAR, to learn about the connection between anti-Blackness and sexual violence. Dismantling anti-Blackness in our ourselves, our workplaces, and our communities is a key part of preventing sexual violence, providing services that are culturally humble for survivors, and supporting Black staff within our own organizations.

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 17: Creating a Trauma-Informed Pennsylvania

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Executive Director of Pennsylvania's Office of Advocacy and Reform Dan Jurman and Victim Services Inc. Clinical Director Erika Brosig join us on this episode to share the Commonwealth’s plans to help service providers use a trauma-informed and healing-centered approach. We learn more about what it means to be trauma-informed and how the plan can have an impact on the care survivors of trauma receive.

To learn more about the Trauma-Informed PA Plan and to see a list of the Think Tank Members visit the Office of Advocacy and Reform Website.

Check out the Pennsylvania Trauma-Informed Network for more resources and to get involved in your local community

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 16: Keeping Kids Safe During the Pandemic

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0500

This episode we are joined by Cathy Palm, Founder of The Center for Children’s Justice, to learn how we can help keep kids safe during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

To learn more about The Center for Children’s Justice, visit c4cj.org.
To learn more about the Safe2Say Something Tip Line, visit safe2saypa.org or call 1-844-732-2729.

ChildLine provides information, counseling, and referral services for families and children to ensure the safety and well-being of the children of Pennsylvania. The toll-free intake line, 1-800-932-0313, is available 24 hours/7 days a week to receive reports of suspected child abuse.

Episode 15: Setting & Respecting Boundaries

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0500

This year we’ve had to navigate boundaries in new ways. During this episode, we explore the importance of setting and respecting boundaries, and provide tips on how to have these sometimes difficult conversations with one another.

For more information about boundaries, visit SafeSecureKids.org, including this guide for talking to the children in your life about consent. For more information about grief and loss, visit HighmarkCaringPlace.com.

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 14: Male Survivors with Tammi Burke

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500

This episode we are joined by Tammi Burke, an expert who has worked with male survivors of sexual violence for over 30 years. Tammi shares stories and lessons learned to help rape crisis center staff better serve male survivors in their communities.

To learn more about working with men and boys who are survivors of abuse, visit:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 13: Celebrating the work of SAFE-T and Forensic Nurses

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Forensic Nurses Week this year is from November 9 - 13. The Penn State Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth (SAFE-T) Center, works to enhance care for sexual assault victims in underserved communities. Join us as we hear from a group of folks involved with the SAFE-T Center Program and how it has impacted advocates, nurses, survivors, and their communities.

You can learn more about the SAFE-T Center at safetcenter.psu.edu. If you are interested in having SAFE-T in your community, you can contact Sheridan Miyamoto and the team at the SAFE-T Center at safet@psu.edu. To learn more about PASSAGES, visit passages-inc.org or contact Marlene Austin at passagesed@verizon.net. To get in touch with Jessica Birbeck, you can email her at birbeckja@upmc.edu.

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 12: Housing Rights for Survivors of Sexual Violence

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we are joined by Staff Attorneys from PCAR’s Sexual Violence Legal Assistance Project (SVLAP) to learn about housing rights and the impact of discrimination on survivors of sexual violence. We use scenarios to understand common examples of discrimination, and learn how to file a complaint in Pennsylvania.

To learn more about housing discrimination and to file a complaint, visit:

Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) Housing Discrimination Forms and Questionnaire
National Federal Eviction Moratorium during COVID-19 pandemic
Examples of Housing Discrimination
Support Animal Facts

Episode 11: Language Access Lessons Learned

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Join PCAR staff to learn about language access and the importance of having a language access plan for your organization. We share how PCAR has approached language access, some of the barriers we’ve faced, and what we’ve learned along the way.

For additional resources to create or improve your language access plan, visit:

LEP Toolkit from Casa de Esperanza and template
Breaking the Silence: Interpreting for Victim Services Training Manual and Workbook
APIGBV resources
Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing
PCAR’s Virtual Language Access Institute
Language Access Webinar
Enhancing Language Access for Survivors of Sexual Violence

Episode 10: Human Trafficking with Heather Shnyder

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of PA Centered, we talk with one of the leading experts on human trafficking, Transitions of PA Education Specialist Heather Shnyder. Heather helps us learn more about what trafficking looks like in the Commonwealth, who is involved and what we can do to help.

If you suspect a child or an adult who is in immediate danger, call 911. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. For children, follow up with a ChildLine report by calling 1-800-932-0313. You can also call Transitions of PA at 1-800-850-7948 for assistance.

To learn more about human trafficking and how you can help, visit:

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 9: Dancing on Live Embers with Tina Lopes and Barb Thomas – Part 2

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 00:01:00 -0400

In this two-part episode, we talk with Tina Lopes and Barb Thomas, the authors of Dancing on Live Embers: Challenging Racism in Organizations. Our discussion highlights some of the major themes and lessons from the book, and we examine how white privilege and power show up as obstacles in non-profit and anti-sexual violence organizations.

You can learn more about Tina and the book at tinalopes.com. Other works from Barb can be found through Between the Lines Publications.

Check out the resources mentioned by Barb and Tina during the podcast:

PCAR’s Racial and Sexual Violence Pyramid
White Supremacy Culture in Organizations by The Centre for Community Organizations (COCo)
White Women doing White Supremacy in Nonprofit Culture by Heather Laine Talley
Empowering Workplaces Combat Emotional Tax for People of Colour in Canada by Catalyst: Workplaces That Work for Women.

Episode 8: Dancing on Live Embers with Tina Lopes and Barb Thomas – Part 1

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

You can learn more about Tina and the book at tinalopes.com. Other works from Barb can be found through Between the Lines Publications.

Check out the resources mentioned by Barb and Tina during the podcast:

PCAR’s Racial and Sexual Violence Pyramid
White Supremacy Culture in Organizations by The Centre for Community Organizations (COCo)
White Women doing White Supremacy in Nonprofit Culture by Heather Laine Talley
Empowering Workplaces Combat Emotional Tax for People of Colour in Canada by Catalyst: Workplaces That Work for Women.

Episode 7: Sexual Violence Protection Orders

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

This episode we are joined by Staff Attorneys from PCAR’s Sexual Violence Legal Assistance Project (SVLAP) to learn about Sexual Violence Protection Orders. To contact the SVLAP, call 717-901-6784. Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 6: Racial & Sexual Violence

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

This episode we dig into the intersections between racial and sexual violence. PCAR staff, Tatiana Piper and Jackie Strohm, talk about their Racial and Sexual Violence Pyramid that can be used as a tool to help others make the connection. Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Bonus Episode: PCAR/NSVRC Racial Justice Lessons Learned

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

During this bonus episode, we hear from PCAR/ NSVRC leadership about our efforts to become an anti-racist organization and what we have learned along the way.

You can read our joint statement about standing with communities of color.

We encourage you to learn about and support organizations of color that have been doing this work for a long time, and are doing this work so well, including Black Women’s Blueprint, Moving to End Sexual Assault (MESA), National Organization of Asian and Pacific Islanders Ending Sexual Violence (NAPIESV), Visioning B.E.A.R. Circle Intertribal Coalition (VBCIC), and The DC Rape Crisis Center (DCRCC).

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 5: Online Training

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 00:01:00 -0400

Online training has become very popular! This episode we learn how to transition in-person training to a virtual format. We are joined by Annie Gebhardt, who shares with us some of the best practices to make online training interactive and engaging. Be sure to also check out the accompanying resource on Engaging Learners in Active Online Training. Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 4: V.O.I.C.E. with LaQuisha Anthony

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 00:01:00 -0400

This episode, we are joined by LaQuisha Anthony, Founder and CEO of V.O.I.C.E. Victory Over Inconceivable Cowardly Experiences, Inc. To learn more about V.O.I.C.E, visit www.asurvivorsvoice.org or follow them on social media at @asurvivorsvoice.

Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Bonus Episode: Bostock vs. Clayton County Part 2

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 00:01:00 -0400

In part 2 of this bonus episode, we discuss the Supreme Court’s monumental ruling on Bostock vs. Clayton County, GA. We discuss the historical context of this decision, implications for the future, and what anti-sexual violence organizations can do.

Bonus Episode: Bostock vs. Clayton County part 1

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 00:01:00 -0400

In part 1 of this bonus episode, we will discuss the Supreme Court’s monumental ruling on Bostock vs. Clayton County, GA. This decision made clear that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits employers from discriminating against gay or transgender individuals. Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 3: Title IX with Donna Greco

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 00:01:00 -0400

Do you have questions about the new Title IX changes? This episode we are joined by PCAR's Policy Director, Donna Greco, to learn about Title IX and the new regulations that will go in effect on August 14, 2020. Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 2: Uprooting Racism with Paul Kivel and Loretta J. Ross

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 00:01:00 -0400

Join us as we discuss the book, Uprooting Racism, and the connection between race and the anti-sexual violence movement. This episode we are joined by activists Loretta J. Ross, and author of Uprooting Racism, Paul Kivel. Purchase the book and learn more about Paul at paulkivel.com; learn more about Loretta at lorettaross.com. Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Episode 1: SafeSecureKids.org

Wed, 20 May 2020 22:00:00 -0400

SafeSecureKids.org offers free resources to help adults have conversations with kids about consent and boundaries with the goal of preventing child sexual abuse. This episode we are joined by Susan Cort from d’Vinci Interactive to learn more about the website, upcoming resources, and how to get involved. Visit www.pcar.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.

Welcome to PA Centered

Tue, 12 May 2020 10:46:57 -0400

Join PCAR as we share ideas and resources to support our communities in finding new ways to respond to and prevent violence. Subscribe now for updates.

Visit PCAR.org/podcasts for show notes and transcripts.