Wasserman Schultz Statement Commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act

Washington, DC, September 12, 2014
As a woman and as a mother, I speak up for VAWA because domestic violence, rape, and assault of women are not private issues to be kept in the shadows – they are unacceptable violations of the basic human rights of women. This week we recognize that more than ever as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act.
U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz issued the following statement to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act becoming law:
“This Saturday we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). This legislation was a monumental step forward in combating domestic and sexual violence in our nation and it continues to provide vital resources to support survivors in escaping violence through funding and guidance for community prevention initiatives, survivor-centered training for law enforcement and judges, and legal protections for survivors and their families.  I was proud to be a co-sponsor and strong supporter of reauthorizing a comprehensive, inclusive, and robustly-funded VAWA in both in 2005 and recently in 2013 because, simply put, VAWA programs save lives.
“It is because of the proven effectiveness of the Violence Against Women Act that my bill, the Rape Survivor Child Custody Act, seeks to plus up funding for the two largest programs authorized in VAWA.  Under the Rape Survivor Child Custody Act, states that pass a statute allowing a woman to terminate the parental rights of a rapist based on clear and convincing evidence that the child was conceived through rape would receive additional funding for the Sexual Assault Services Program and Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors program.  This funding will help ensure that advocates have the resources necessary to meet the often complex and vast needs of survivors and their families, and that law enforcement and legal advocates have the knowledge required to effectively handle cases of domestic violence. 
“As a woman and as a mother, I stand by these programs and I speak up for VAWA because domestic violence, rape, and assault of women are not private issues to be kept in the shadows – they are unacceptable violations of the basic human rights of women.  This week we recognize that more than ever as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act.”
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