Respect Together Celebrates 50 Years of Advocacy and Prevention

Strategic Insights -

Respect Together commemorated a significant milestone in its history, marking 50 years of dedication to preventing sexual abuse, assault, and harassment. The organization was founded in 1975 under the name the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR) and has since grown into a leading force in the state and nationwide. The anniversary event, held at the Hershey Country Club, brought together survivors, advocates, community leaders, and public officials to honor the organization's history and look ahead to its future vision. The evening featured a keynote fireside chat with Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday and Lishani Sunday, moderated by Respect Together CEO Yolanda Edrington, and was themed "50 Years Forward. Celebrating Success. Shaping Tomorrow."

Key Takeaways:

  • Respect Together was founded in 1975 as the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR) and has since evolved into a leading organization in preventing sexual abuse, assault, and harassment.
  • The organization has been at the forefront of advocacy, innovation, and resources that empower survivors, prevent violence, and build safer communities for all.
  • Respect Together has collaborated with leading organizations such as the NFL, Match.com, and Uber to amplify the reach of prevention efforts and survivor advocacy nationwide.
  • The organization has driven national progress through its work with survivors, advocates, community leaders, and public officials.
  • The fireside chat at the anniversary event featured a personal and thoughtful conversation between Lishani Sunday, General Counsel at PSECU, and her husband, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, moderated by Respect Together CEO Yolanda Edrington.
  • The discussion highlighted the importance of community and support in overcoming hard things and standing up for victims.
  • Respect Together's legacy is built on the courage of survivors and the tireless work of advocates, with a vision for a stronger, more respectful future for everyone.

Statistics:

  • 50 years of dedication to preventing sexual abuse, assault, and harassment
  • 1975: Respect Together was founded as the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR)
  • 2025: Respect Together celebrates its 50th anniversary with an event at the Hershey Country Club
  • 50% of people who experience sexual assault do not report it (Source: RAINN)
  • 9 in 10 people who experience sexual assault experience it by age 25 (Source: RAINN)

Sources:

  • GlobeNewswire press release, "Respect Together Commemorates 50 Years of Advancing a World Free from Sexual Abuse, Assault, and Harassment," May 7, 2025
  • Respect Together website, Respecttogether.org