Protect Us from Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

VAWA, Violence Against Women Act, would not have happened without the steadfast commitment and hard work of a countless number of advocates, coalitions and community partners who worked tirelessly for this landmark legislation. And thanks to the bipartisan efforts and dedication of U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (Republican) and then U.S. Senator Joe Biden (Democrat) who worked diligently to draft the VAWA Act. These two men were able to set aside their political differences and recognize that valuing the well being of our citizens takes precedence over the political infighting of our of our political parties.

By drafting this legislation, these men acknowled the severe sociological impact that domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking has on our communities. This powerful piece of legislation provided federal funding to help local communities address the needs of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. Their ability to come together meant that domestic violence would no longer be considered a “family matter” and it criminalized spousal rape. To be certain, without these two men, we would not have made the great strides in the areas of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. Programs have been created that address the devastating impact of early victimization and exposure to violence.

Due to the VAWA legislation that requires community service providers collaborate together, we are beginning to see some positive results. Judges, prosecutors, law enforcement, hospitals, shelters and rape crisis centers are working together more and more to create powerful change in their communities. But this collaboration is still in its infancy, and is due to the VAWA Act and the funding that results from the Act.

But we still have a very long way to go and although we have seen progress we continue to fight an uphill battle. We still need the VAWA act in place to ensure that we will not lose the ground that has been gained. We still need our leaders to put aside their political differences and come together in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration with the goal of improving our society as a whole. Please contact your local congressman and let them know that you support the Violence Against Women Act and that you support protecting our children, daughters, sisters, mothers and grandmothers. Ask them to Reauthorize VAWA so that we can continue to provide protection and assistance to these victims.