Katherine McClanahan, a graduate student at Grand Canyon University (GCU), has played a pivotal role in advocating for changes in state and federal laws concerning image-based sexual abuse. Her journey began when she discovered that her images were used without consent on several websites, leading to significant personal distress.
McClanahan’s advocacy efforts have contributed to the passage of the Take It Down Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump on May 19. This legislation aims to increase protections for victims of revenge porn and nonconsensual sexual images while holding tech platforms accountable.
Reflecting on her experience, McClanahan stated, “I wasn’t prepared to take on this, but it takes just one person with a purpose to make change.” She emphasized the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to effect change.
As part of her studies at GCU, McClanahan conducted research that highlighted the prevalence and impact of image-based sexual abuse. Her findings revealed that 1 in 10 people have experienced such exploitation, with effects similar to offline abuse.
Dr. Carin Blevins, faculty lead for GCU’s online master’s degree program in social work, praised McClanahan as an example of how policy and advocacy can bring about widespread change. “She is the best example I have of this,” Blevins remarked.
In Arkansas, McClanahan collaborated with State Representative Karilyn Brown to amend laws regarding unlawful distribution of sexual images. The revised legislation removed previous loopholes related to consent and relationships with perpetrators.
Brown acknowledged McClanahan’s contribution: “Katherine and I are going to continue to work together and try to comb through statutes to see if there are other loopholes.”
Despite ongoing challenges related to her own experiences with image-based abuse, McClanahan remains committed to advocacy and hopes to specialize in therapy for victims as she completes her graduate studies. She expressed gratitude for the support she has received from organizations like the National Center on Sexual Exploitation.
McClanahan concluded by emphasizing the importance of community support: “There is so much shame and isolation, but the biggest, most empowering thing is recognizing I am not alone.”
