Pelosi Statement on 20th Anniversary of Violence Against Women Act

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the 20th anniversary of the enactment of the Violence Against Women Act legislation, which President Bill Clinton signed into law on September 13, 1994:

"Every woman – regardless of the color of her skin or where she was born – deserves to feel safe at home, at work, and while walking down the street. For 20 years, the Violence Against Women Act has served as the foundation of our efforts to end sexual and domestic violence in the United States.

"Freedom from abuse is a basic human right – and all victims of violence deserve our support. Last year and the year before, however, House Republicans refused to pass a strong reauthorization of this landmark law for 18 months, voting to discriminate against women survivors of abuse on the basis of gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, cultural background, and immigration status, for women seeking help.

"Sexual and domestic violence have no place in our society. That's why, as part of the Middle Class Jumpstart agenda, House Democrats will strengthen the Violence Against Women Act and make increased investments in shelters and other life-saving anti-domestic violence services. As we mark this anniversary, let us renew our commitment to even greater progress for the victims of these crimes. For children who worry about their mother's safety, for women who fear their partner's rage, we must stand up and speak out against all incidences of domestic violence – because we know one is too many."

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