National Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Working to Give a Voice to Those Who are Suffering

Local Organizations Collaborating in Times of Crisis.  For those living in Travis County, the Austin Police Department and the Austin/Travis County Family Violence Protection Team work day in and day out to put and end to domestic violence, describing themselves as a “collaborative, community response to family violence that provides multiple services at one location.”  These men and women ensure not only that law enforcement gets involved in situations of family violence, but also that victims have the access they need to counseling, crisis management and legal services.  

Similarly, Austin SafePlace serves as a beacon of hope in Travis County—providing families with not only a place to stay if they need it, but also services designed to keep them out of harm’s way.  I was pleased recently to announce $500,000 in federal funds for SafePlace to address obstacles women with disabilities have in accessing domestic violence and sexual assault services.  These funds will help SafePlace continue their important work and make changes so that it can effectively reach more individuals who may face unique challenges in seeking help.

Breaking the Cycle of Violence Takes Investment.  The Texas Council on Family Violence conducted a statewide poll on the prevalence and attitudes toward domestic violence and found that alarmingly, 74 percent of all Texans have either themselves experienced some form of domestic violence in their lives, or have a family member or a friend that has.  We can prevent this tragedy one life at a time by dedicating sufficient resources to the prevention of domestic violence.  Together we must send a strong message to the survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault that we will work for change and we will settle for nothing less. By showing young people what it means to be in a healthy relationship and by working to change the attitudes and beliefs that have historically supported domestic violence, like through Austin SafePlace’s Expect Respect program,  we can break the cycle of violence. 

Reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act Now.  In September, we celebrated the 17th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)—landmark legislation that has made major strides in making America’s women more safe and secure and better ensuring the victims of violence get a voice and the services they need.

Since the passage of VAWA, there is increased awareness and understanding about the specialized needs of victims and recognition that education and training are required to effectively handle domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking cases.  The number of domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers and comprehensive service programs has increased significantly since the bill was enacted.  With domestic violence shelters, VAWA funds have strengthened women and their families by providing the resources they need to courageously leave their batterers. 

The Violence Against Women Act is up for reauthorization this year. I am hopeful we will extend this important law.

Central Texas Hotline Making a Difference.  VAWA also established the National Domestic Violence Hotline for victims to seek assistance.  This hotline, which is based in Central Texas, has logged more than 1 million calls since it began in 1996.  Hotline workers and volunteers have provided a helping hand with dignity and respect -- over and over. 

We must also work to give a voice to those who are suffering.  It takes great strength of character to untangle oneself and one’s children from an abusive situation, and the Texas Council on Family Violence and its partner organizations recognize that strength, nurture it, and pass it along to those who still need help. They understand that “safe homes and safe families are the foundation of a safe society.”  If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or Austin SafePlace at (512) 267-SAFE. 

U.S. Congressman Lloyd Doggett is a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Budget Committee. He is also Ranking Member of the Human Resources Subcommittee.