Today, President Obama issued a press release marking the 15th Anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act, writing that
This bipartisan accomplishment has ushered in a new era of responsibility in the fight to end violence against women. In the 15 years since VAWA became law, our Nation’s response to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking has strengthened. Communities recognize the special needs of victims and appreciate the benefits of collaboration among professionals in the civil and criminal justice system, victim advocates, and other service providers. With the support of VAWA funds, dedicated units of law enforcement officers and specialized prosecutors have grown more numerous than ever before. Most importantly, victims are more likely to have a place to turn for help — for emergency shelter and crisis services, and also for legal assistance, transitional housing, and services for their children.
This legislation was a landmark achievement in 1994 and remains significant today. This afternoon, Speaker Pelosi suggested that the “Violence Against Women Act is an example of the power of a bipartisan group of legislators determined to make progress. Today we recommit to the goal of ending the scourge of violence against women once and all.” While this legislation is domestic in effect, the need for a commitment to ending such a scourge is both global and immediate, particularly in instable and crisis-ridden areas like Darfur and Southern Sudan.
The opinions expressed here are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Save Darfur Coalition.
Tags: legislation, Obama Administration, VAWA, Violence Against Women, Violence Against Women Act
