Director Rosie Hidalgo, head of the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) at the Justice Department, recently delivered a keynote speech at the Conference on Crimes Against Women. In her address, she expressed gratitude to attendees for their dedication and service in combatting gender-based violence.
Hidalgo praised the leadership of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in preventing and addressing firearms-related domestic violence. She also acknowledged the significant role of individuals and organizations dedicated to ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking and other related forms of gender-based violence.
The OVW is responsible for overseeing key aspects of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), a landmark bipartisan legislation first enacted by Congress in 1994. The act promotes a Coordinated Community Response (CCR), fostering collaboration across all sectors to support survivors and their children.
As we approach VAWA's 30th anniversary this September, Hidalgo noted that it provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made thus far. Society's perceptions of these crimes have shifted significantly over time due to tireless efforts from various individuals and organizations.
However, Hidalgo acknowledged that there is still much work to be done. Many survivors face substantial challenges navigating complex systems and accessing trauma-informed resources that meet their unique circumstances.
The OVW has funded 12 sites across the country through its Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP) to implement policies aimed at reducing domestic violence homicides committed with firearms. These projects highlight the importance of developing tools for better understanding laws related to firearms prohibitors.
Hidalgo also announced two new resources from the Department of Justice: a Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen Our National Response to Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Involving Adult Victims and a webpage housing additional resources for prosecutors. Both initiatives are designed to build provable cases in a trauma-informed manner while ensuring due process for defendants.
The director ended her speech by inviting attendees to an OVW listening session, aimed at hearing their experiences and suggestions on how to improve partnerships, strengthen coordinated community responses, and increase access to justice for survivors and their families.