On September 13, 2024, Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer delivered remarks on the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Addressing both in-person and online attendees, Mizer highlighted the significance of this milestone and reflected on the collective efforts to support survivors of gender-based violence.
Mizer expressed gratitude to survivors who shared their experiences earlier in the day, emphasizing the importance of collaborative work at various governmental levels to enhance justice, safety, and services for survivors. He acknowledged the Department of Justice's (DOJ) commitment to these goals and praised federal agency partners for their coordinated response to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
"Improving outcomes and increasing access to justice, safety, and services for survivors is a top priority at the Department of Justice," Mizer stated. He thanked Rosie for her leadership at OVW over the past year and commended the OVW team for organizing the event.
Mizer also recognized the dedication of advocates across the nation and Tribal lands who work tirelessly to address gender-based violence. "Your efforts, vision, and dedication are crucial. You are making the promises of VAWA real and changing lives," he said.
The speech included acknowledgments from Attorney General Garland, Deputy Attorney General Monaco, and other officials who discussed VAWA’s progress over three decades. Despite significant strides made since its enactment in 1994, Mizer emphasized that more work remains.
Statistics indicate ongoing challenges for survivors disproportionately affected by gender-based violence. In his role overseeing litigation and grantmaking components at DOJ, Mizer supports enforcing VAWA protections in court and ensuring effective distribution of grant funds. This includes preventing wrongful eviction or denial of safe housing for survivors through enforcement by DOJ’s Civil Rights Division.
Mizer highlighted updates made in 2022 to DOJ Guidance on Improving Law Enforcement Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence by Identifying and Preventing Gender Bias. He also mentioned implementing DOJ’s Equity Action Plan to ensure equitable access to services across all communities.
Changes in VAWA over three decades have led to new pathways for justice with increased focus on civil legal assistance and transitional housing. This year saw OVW launch new grant solicitations under a restorative practices pilot program funded through VAWA reauthorization in 2022. More than $29 million will be awarded to support these programs aimed at expanding access to justice for survivors.
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Concluding his remarks Mizer handed-microphone back Director Hidalgo concluding remarks.