The Immigrant Victims of Violence Protection Act of 2005; Protecting all Battered Immigrant Women and Children

THE IMMIGRANT VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE PROTECTION ACT OF 2005: PROTECTING ALL BATTERED IMMIGRANT WOMEN AND CHILDREN -- (Extensions of Remarks - July 01, 2005)

SPEECH OF HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY OF ILLINOIS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 2005

* Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, today I'm introducing the Immigrant Victims of Violence Protection Act because there is a perverse incentive in U.S. law for immigrant women to stay with their abusive spouses in order to preserve their immigration status. My legislation will help immigrant women who need to leave their abusive spouses by preventing their deportation and providing them access to work permits and legal and social services.

* Violence against women is a profound and extremely pervasive problem, striking across economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and across all age groups. If we are to stop violence against women, all victims need protection and assistance without regard to their immigration status. Escaping domestic violence can be especially difficult for immigrant women and their children. The threat of deportation, cultural and language barriers, lack of a work permit and limited access to legal and social services may make immigrant victims of domestic violence more dependent on their abusive spouses.

* That is why including the Immigrant Victims of Violence Protection Act as part of VAWA reauthorization is essential. My legislation would help immigrant victims in my district and across the country escape from violent and abusive households. Battered immigrant women deserve an escape from abuse that protects their rights and keeps them united with their children.

* Today this House has a chance to fight against violence against women and protect all immigrant victims of violence. I urge every Member in this House to join this fight.

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