4.11.22 – Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization Act of 2022

Monday, April 11, 2022

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization Act of 2022

APFA is proud to see the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization Act of 2022 passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden. The VAWA began as an extensive grassroots effort in the 80s and 90s to help battered women and first became law under President Clinton. The original legislation provided funds for investigating and prosecuting violent crimes against women while imposing automatic and mandatory restitution on those convicted. It also allowed civil redress when prosecutors chose not to prosecute cases. It also established the Office on Violence Against Women under the U.S. Department of Justice.

The 2022 Reauthorization of the VAWA has expanded to further support access to critical resources for all survivors of sexual violence with increased services in the LBGTQ+ community, other cultures, and rural communities. It allows tribal courts more authority in handling non-Native perpetrators of sexual assault, child abuse, and sex trafficking affecting Native American women and children. In addition, it provides for a new pilot program to help survivors in Alaska Native Villages, a much-needed program in their community.

We can all play a part in preventing sexual violence occurrences in our communities through awareness and educational resources. All survivors of sexual violence deserve the support and resources to heal from trauma and pursue justice.

In Solidarity,

Chaddrian, Charlotte, and Rhonda
APFA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee

[email protected]

Allie Malis
APFA Government Affairs Representative

Lori Glattly
APFA Government Affairs Representative

[email protected]