Biden announces new initiatives to combat gender-based violence on the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act

The commemoration event at the White House brought together nearly 1,000 survivors and advocates, highlighting the significant impact of VAWA since its inception in 1994. Biden emphasized the law’s role in improving the criminal justice response to violence against women and ensuring access to necessary services for victims. The administration’s recent efforts also align with the U.S. National Plan To End Gender-Based Violence, which focuses on prevention, support for survivors, and holding offenders accountable. Key components of the new initiatives include increased federal funding for law enforcement to remove firearms from individuals with domestic abuse convictions, and a new office within the Department of Housing and Urban Development dedicated to helping survivors achieve housing stability.

Historical Context of VAWA

Originally written by Biden in 1990 and signed into law by President Bill Clinton, VAWA was the first comprehensive federal legislation aimed at addressing violence against women. It established critical resources, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the Office on Violence Against Women. Over the years, VAWA has undergone reauthorization and expansion, most recently in 2022, which included provisions to protect against online harassment and abuse.

Focus on Cyber Violence

As technology evolves, so do the forms of violence against women. The Biden administration’s new initiatives include a focus on combating cyber crimes, such as cyberstalking and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. The newly announced national resource center will provide support to law enforcement and victim services in addressing these modern challenges.

Ongoing Challenges and Future Directions

Despite the progress made, Biden’s remarks underscored that there is still considerable work to be done in addressing gender-based violence. He called for continued advocacy and support for victims, while also emphasizing the need for broader societal change to combat the underlying issues that contribute to violence against women. The administration’s commitment to funding and resources reflects an ongoing effort to adapt to the changing landscape of gender-based violence and ensure that survivors receive the support they need.