Director Rosie Hidalgo delivered remarks at the National Sexual Assault Conference on August 14, 2024. In her address, she expressed gratitude to VALOR US and Respect Together for hosting the event and acknowledged the hard work of those present.
Hidalgo highlighted her role as Director of the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and discussed the office's efforts under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). "The hallmark of VAWA is a coordinated community response," she noted, emphasizing collaboration across various disciplines to support survivors.
She announced that OVW would be awarding over $52 million in grants through the Sexual Assault Services Formula Grant Program, which supports rape crisis centers nationwide. This represents a significant increase from $25 million in 2020. Additional awards will be announced for other programs in the coming month.
Hidalgo also introduced Supporting Our Circle: The National Tribal Clearinghouse on Sexual Assault, a resource hub for Tribal communities developed in partnership with organizations such as the Minnesota Indian Women’s Sexual Assault Coalition and the International Association of Forensic Nurses.
A new grant program authorized by VAWA 2022 was also mentioned. Known as the Abby Honold program, it aims to provide trauma-informed training for law enforcement handling cases of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Additionally, Hidalgo discussed OVW's recent release of "A Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen Our National Response to Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Involving Adult Victims." This guide offers principles aimed at improving outcomes for victims and accountability for perpetrators.
Hidalgo underscored OVW's commitment to advancing equity and supporting historically marginalized communities. She highlighted initiatives targeting incarcerated survivors, including Just Detention International’s Rooted in Resilience Program.
She also referenced efforts by the Justice Department to address sexual abuse within correctional facilities. This includes recommendations from a working group formed by the Deputy Attorney General in 2021 to tackle sexual abuse by Federal Bureau of Prisons personnel.
Hidalgo concluded by mentioning new federal criminal statutes included in VAWA 2022 that strengthen measures against sexual misconduct by corrections officers and law enforcement officials. She emphasized ongoing efforts to support restorative practices and prepare for VAWA's 30th anniversary this September.
"As we move forward, we must continue to amplify the voices and leadership of survivors," Hidalgo stated. She called for collective action to build a world where gender-based violence is not tolerated, ensuring healing and justice are accessible to all.