Uncovering a Lost Heroine in Forensic History
When Pagan Kennedy began tracing the rape kit’s origin, she found something unexpected—a missing name. Martha “Marty” Goddard, an advocate, strategist, and survivor, had almost been erased from one of history’s most vital forensic breakthroughs. However, her contribution wasn’t just significant; it was revolutionary.
Why the Rape Kit Was So Desperately Needed
Before the rape kit, survivors of sexual violence often faced skepticism instead of support. Police manuals from the 1970s even claimed most women lied about being raped. In this culture of disbelief, Marty Goddard envisioned a solution that would collect and preserve hard evidence—removing bias from the equation.
Not the First Idea, But the First to Work
While experimental rape kits had been tried before, none had succeeded on a meaningful scale. Goddard, through her nonprofit work, created a standardized, reliable system. Strategically, she credited the design to Louis Vitullo, a police lab technician, to ensure the law enforcement community would adopt it.
How Goddard Strategically Navigated a Biased System
Instead of demanding credit, Goddard focused on outcomes. She used Vitullo’s name because she knew law enforcement wouldn’t take her seriously as a woman. Her ultimate goal wasn’t recognition—it was institutional change. In this regard, she succeeded, despite the odds.
Changing the Narrative Around Sexual Assault
Importantly, Goddard didn’t just push a forensic tool. She worked to shift the entire narrative. With proper evidence collection, rape could be proven in court, not just argued in hearsay. That fact alone helped countless survivors receive the justice they deserved.
Her Moment of Awakening
Goddard’s commitment took root while working with runaway teens. Unlike common assumptions of the time, these teens weren’t just seeking rebellion—they were fleeing abuse. These stories hit her hard. Consequently, she realized the need for systematic change.
A Reformer’s Approach, Not a Revolutionary’s Protest
Many activists took to the streets, but Goddard chose a more strategic path. She dissected policies, identified weaknesses, and applied pressure precisely where systems failed. This behind-the-scenes reform required resilience, strategy, and above all, courage.
The Impact of Her Work on Survivors Nationwide
Thanks to her efforts, rape kits became standard in many jurisdictions. Survivors could finally collect evidence in a way that held up in court. These kits not only helped identify serial offenders but also protected the innocent from false accusations—a win for everyone.
The Rape Kit Today: A Mixed Legacy
Despite technological advancements, the rape kit remains largely unchanged. Worse still, there’s no national standard. Procedures vary by state, and thousands of kits go untested each year. Goddard, without a doubt, would demand reforms to address these failings.
The Unseen Struggles of Filing a Rape Kit
Filing a rape kit is no small feat. Survivors must often travel far, endure long waits, and go through emotionally taxing procedures—all within hours of experiencing trauma. Without proper support, many choose not to file at all.
Barriers That Persist in the Modern Era
Unfortunately, survivors from marginalized communities face even more hurdles. Lack of transportation, childcare, or time off work can be impossible to overcome. In effect, justice remains out of reach for many who need it most.
New Solutions: Technology and Accessibility
Thankfully, some solutions are on the horizon. Mobile forensic clinics and telehealth services could provide immediate support to those in need. With these, access could expand drastically—something Goddard would surely advocate for today.
The Tragic Silence Surrounding Her Legacy
Though she sparked one of the most important tools in forensic justice, Marty Goddard’s name faded from public memory. In part, this was because she worked behind the scenes. But also, the very system she tried to reform overlooked her.
The Cost of Advocacy: Burnout and Obscurity
Goddard’s nonprofit eventually lost funding. Her health declined, and she faded into obscurity. The world moved on, often praising others for what she started. It’s a heartbreaking conclusion to a life spent helping others.
Restoring Her Rightful Place in History
Thanks to recent investigations and renewed interest in her story, Marty Goddard’s name is being restored. Activists, historians, and journalists are working to ensure her efforts are recognized—not just by specialists but by the general public.
What We Owe Marty Goddard
Every rape kit filed today is part of her legacy. Every survivor able to tell their story—and be believed—stands on the shoulders of her work. We owe her more than acknowledgment; we owe her action.
Reforming the System: What’s Next?
To truly honor Marty, the justice system must continue evolving. National standards for rape kit use, funding for forensic nurses, and trauma-informed protocols are essential. Only then will her dream be fully realized.
Turning Advocacy into Policy
Marty didn’t stop at helping individuals; she wanted policy-level change. That’s a lesson for today’s reformers—lasting change requires legislative and institutional support, not just good intentions.
Every Survivor Deserves Access
If a survivor wants to file a rape kit, nothing should stand in their way. Whether it’s cost, location, or trauma, the system must adapt. Goddard believed in solutions—and it’s time we deliver them.
A Tool, A Symbol, A Statement
More than just a box of swabs and envelopes, the rape kit symbolizes the belief that sexual assault should be investigated, not dismissed. It carries the weight of every survivor’s voice, backed by science and validated through justice.
Keeping Her Vision Alive
Though she’s gone, Marty’s vision still guides many organizations and advocates. Her strategic thinking and survivor-first approach remain best practices in the field. It’s up to us to carry the torch.
FAQs
Who was Martha “Marty” Goddard?
A victims’ advocate and strategic reformer who pioneered the modern rape kit and championed systemic change for sexual assault survivors.
Why is she not widely recognized today?
Because her contributions were often behind-the-scenes, and sexism within the criminal justice system marginalized her role.
Was the rape kit her invention?
She refined, distributed, and legitimized it—turning a prototype into a powerful legal tool.
What barriers still exist for survivors today?
Long waits, lack of access, emotional trauma, and procedural inconsistencies still prevent many from filing rape kits.
How can her legacy be honored today?
By improving access, streamlining protocols, and ensuring survivors are heard and respected.
What impact did her work have on criminal justice?
Her rape kit model helped identify serial offenders, reduce false accusations, and legitimize forensic evidence in sexual assault cases.