Supporting The Goals And Ideals Of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Floor Speech

* Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 817, which supports the goals and ideals of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Congress should raise awareness of domestic violence issues and support programs designed to end domestic violence.

* Twenty-two years ago, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed and since 1989 legislation designating October as National Violence Awareness Month has passed every year. Domestic violence affects people of every age, race, ethnicity, religion, and gender. Women are most disproportionately affected and nearly one in four women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime. Every single day in the United States, more than three women are murdered by their significant other. Young women ages 16 to 24 experience the highest rates of intimate partner violence. Every year, over 15 million children are exposed to domestic violence and these children are more likely to abuse alcohol and drugs, attempt suicide, and become involved in teenage prostitution. These statistics are sobering.

* In a struggling economy, domestic violence programs are needed more than ever. Earlier this year marked the 15th anniversary of the passage of the Federal Violence Against Women Act; however, more work must be done to protect victims of domestic violence. In my home State of California, cuts in state financing have led to elimination of funding for shelter services. This has translated to cuts in services and fewer victims being served. Ultimately, this sends a message that victims of domestic abuse are not a priority to our State.

* Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting the goals and ideals of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

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