Washington, D.C.--“On September 13, 1994, President Bill Clinton signed the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) into law. VAWA was groundbreaking legislation that strengthened the nation’s response to the crimes of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Our wives, mothers, sisters and daughters have been better protected as a result, and we must continue to champion their cause.

“VAWA strengthened criminal laws, in part by providing funding to improve the criminal justice system’s response to these serious crimes. It also laid the groundwork for local coordinated community responses to end violence against women by bringing together victim advocates, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and the judiciary.

“Since the passage of VAWA, there is increased awareness and understanding about the specialized needs of victims, and recognition that education and training are required to effectively handle domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking cases. With states, including New York, facing serious budget crises, VAWA funds have become particularly critical over the last couple of years to ensure that vital services for domestic violence victims are funded.

“The Violence Against Women Act ushered in a new era in response to violence against women and much has been accomplished. However, the number of incidents of violence against women remains much too high. On this anniversary, we must all rededicate ourselves to better protecting America’s women from violence and to supporting survivors.”