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Domestic violence is a disheartening and disturbing reality for many women and children living in the United States. The statistics are alarming. In a joint study conducted by the National Institute of Justice and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it was estimated that one in every four women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime. In fact, the Department of Justice has shown that women are 90% to 95% more likely to suffer domestic violence than are men. Tragically, this abuse typically is suffered at the hand of an intimate partner. In 2001, 20% of violence against women was perpetrated by their intimate partners. Unfortunately, only about one in seven cases of domestic assault are brought to the attention of the police.
The news is not all bad, however. Studies show that the rate of domestic violence is declining as public awareness of this problem grows. Programs such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, battered women’s shelters, and enhanced training for police, prosecutors and court officials have all proven successful in contributing to the decline in domestic violence.
However, even one incidence of domestic violence is too much, and Congress must continue to play a role in seeking to prevent such crimes. In the 102nd, 103rd, and 106th Congresses, I cosponsored the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) because I feel strongly that the protection of women and their children should be a top priority. This landmark law, first enacted in 1994, addresses violent crimes against women, including rape and spousal abuse. The VAWA was reauthorized by the 106th Congress as part of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (Public Law 106‑386).
The VAWA currently is authorized through Fiscal Year (FY) 2005, which ends on September 30, 2005. I hope that the 109th Congress will maintain its commitment to preventing and eradicating domestic violence and crimes against women and children by reauthorizing the VAWA. No one should fear violence perpetrated against them within their own homes. By raising public awareness of this problem, we can work to protect lives.
*** If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, help is available. Please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or
1-800-787-3224 (TDD).
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