Congress: Pass the International Violence Against Women Act!
More than 70 percent of women in some countries will experience violence in their lifetime. This is beyond a mere statistic, but a point of crisis, and it's time that we take real action.
On May 8, 2014, the International Violence Against Women Act or "IVAWA" for short, was introduced in the U.S. Senate in order to make combatting violence perpetrated against women and girls internationally a priority for the United States. Companion legislation, H.R. 3571, was introduced in the House of Representatives on November 21, 2013.
The International Violence Against Women Act would provide a comprehensive strategy to address violence against women and girls in developing countries. This bill would authorize new tools such as health programs and survivor interventions to legal reforms, with the goal of promoting economic opportunities and education for women.
Every day, mothers, daughters, and sisters are being beaten and abused, raped and mutilated, burned and enslaved. We have surpassed the point where our involvement in ending this violence is optional; it is now our moral obligation.
Take action today: Send a message to your representatives that it's time to protect women and girls and pass the International Violence Against Women Act!
Dear [Senator/Representative],
I am writing as a constituent and a firm supporter of women's rights worldwide to urge you to co-sponsor the International Violence Against Women Act (H.R.3571/S.2307) in 2014.
[Your comment will be added here]
More than 70 percent of women in some countries will experience violence in their lifetime. This is beyond a mere statistic, but a point of crisis. The I-VAWA gives the United States an opportunity, as a world leader, to make a critical difference in the lives of women and girls across the globe.
As a representative of the American public, you should be aware that 61 percent of voters believe that global violence against women needs to become one of the top international priorities for the U.S. government (according to a 2009 poll).
Every day, mothers, daughters, and sisters are being beaten and abused, raped and mutilated, burned and enslaved. We have surpassed the point where our involvement in ending this violence is optional; it is now our moral obligation.
I am asking you to stand up for these women and girls and help pass the International Violence Against Women Act.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Thank you for considering this request.
