How local advocacy helped reshape Michigan’s response to sexual violence During the 1970s, women across Michigan were building new systems of support for survivors of sexual violence while also pushing for broader legal and institutional reform. Crisis centers became an important part of that work. They provided direct support to survivors, but they also became
From women’s crisis work to public leadership in Washtenaw County Catherine McClary is widely remembered for her long career in Washtenaw County government, but Holly’s archive materials also document an earlier chapter of her life that is especially relevant to the history preserved by Women Who Changed History. McClary began her public service career in
How Michigan became a national leader in sexual assault law reform In 1974, Michigan enacted a comprehensive criminal sexual conduct statute that significantly changed how sexual assault cases were handled in the state. One of the most important provisions was what became known as the Rape Shield Law, which limited the use of a complainant’s
1952–2024 Catherine McClary was a longtime public servant, advocate, mentor, and community leader whose work reflected a deep commitment to equity, women’s rights, and stronger public institutions. Her public service career began in 1974, when she became the youngest person elected to the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners. She served on the board for 14
