By H. Nelson Goodson
March 7, 2013
Washington, D.C. - On Thursday, President Barack H. Obama signed into law the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allowing "thousands of women and men across the country who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking will be able to access resources they need in their communities to help heal from their trauma. In addition, thousands of law enforcement officers will be better equipped to stop violence before it starts, and respond to calls of help when they are needed," wrote Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor to the President and Chair of the White House Council on Women and Girls in an article posted about the VAWA in the White House blog.
"This Act will help by requiring colleges and universities to provide information to students about dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and improve data collection about these crimes. We call on all of our colleges and universities to make ending sexual assault a top priority.
In addition, the bill removes barriers faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) victims, whose needs are often overlooked by law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, and victim service providers.
We are also thrilled that Congress held the line and maintained protections for battered immigrants and took the important step of also reauthorizing the Trafficking Victims Protection Act in this same legislation.
Finally and very importantly, VAWA will bring justice for Native American victims. Rates of domestic violence perpetrated on Native American women are among the highest in the country. VAWA will help to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the tribal justice system and bring perpetrators of violence to justice.
No one should have to live in fear of violence, especially in her home, and VAWA affirms that belief," Jarrett wrote in the White House blog.
For copy of bill (PDF) at link: VAWA Bill 2013
For copy of bill (PDF) at link: VAWA Bill 2013
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