Civic action to-do list for 9-7-18

3. Reauthorize VAWA before it expires

Tens of thousands of victims and survivors of gender-based violence rely on the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), our nation’s most comprehensive source of support for victims of domestic violence, dating, violence, sexual assault, and stalking. But, at the end of this month VAWA will expire! We are relying on your help to ensure that VAWA is reauthorized with the critical enhancements that survivors need. Register for a webinar hosted by the National Task Force to End Sexual and Domestic Violence to hear issue area experts discuss VAWA, the key enhancements in the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2018 (H.R. 6545), and strategies to make sure that VAWA is reauthorized!

2. Birth control ≠ abortion inducing drugs

The next Supreme Court Justice should respect the rights of all Americans, but this week during the Senate Judiciary Committee hearings we learned that Judge Kavanaugh’s appointment would have devastating impacts on the safety and health of millions of Americans. If confirmed to the Supreme Court he will rule against gun violence prevention policies and against a woman’s right to contraceptive coverage and comprehensive healthcare. Keep up the pressure by calling your Senators and telling them to #StopKavanaugh.  

1. Support domestic violence shelter funding

Every survivor of violence should have access to housing and supportive services when they make the decision to leave their abuser in search of safety. The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) is the primary funding stream for shelters, domestic violence coalitions, some training programs, and a program that addresses the needs of victims' children. FVPSA was first passed into law in 1984, but it has gone unauthorized since 2010. A straightforward FVPSA reauthorization has been introduced in the Senate (S. 2784) and in the House of Representatives (H.R. 6014). Watch Representatives Thompson, Moore, and Walberg make the case for FVPSA’s passage on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, and then call your Senators and Representative and tell them to co-sponsor this life-saving bill.