Each week the AIT community receives #TakeActionTuesday with tips for creating impactful change in their community and beyond. From new online tools, to pending policy updates, subscribe today to make sure you don’t miss these action-oriented recommendations.
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was the first comprehensive federal legislation aimed at improving criminal justice and community-based responses to stalking, sexual assault, human trafficking, domestic violence, and/or dating violence. Since being signed into law in 1994, VAWA has provided critical support to organizations across the country that provide a wide range of prevention programs and lifesaving services to gender-based violence survivors.
On Friday, VAWA officially lapsed when Congress failed to include the language in the federal government funding deal. If VAWA is not reauthorized by Congress in the months ahead, it will likely result in the loss of critical funds for gender-based violence prevention programs and survivor services.
This #TakeActionTuesday, contact your Congress Members and share your views on VAWA’s lapse and the upcoming reauthorization. Here are some tips to get you started.
- Review The Proposed Changes. Familiarize yourself with the proposed changes to the VAWA language and decide which of these changes align with your personal views. Then, make sure to highlight your opinions on these changes when contacting your representatives. For more information on the proposed changes to VAWA, check out this link.
- Make It Personal. Including your personal story while discussing your views with your representatives is a great way to ensure that your message makes a greater impact. Consider sharing 1-2 sentences on how this particular issue has impacted your life or the lives of those in your community, and why you are asking your representatives to take action. Check out our personal storytelling template to get started.
- Start Local. Contact a gender-based violence prevention or direct-service organization in your community. Ask them how VAWA impacts their programs and services, and how you can offer your support.
How are you taking action on VAWA’s reauthorization? Tell us at info@aitogether.org!
