Celebrating 30 Years of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Today marks a monumental milestone — the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Signed into law in 1994, VAWA has provided crucial protections and resources for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

Before VAWA was enacted, domestic violence was considered a “family matter,” and was not talked about openly. Because of this, law enforcement was not trained or equipped to handle domestic violence, and very few resources existed for survivors – leaving many survivors feeling alone and silenced.

Over the past three decades, VAWA has truly transformed the way we support survivors by providing critical funding to live-saving programs, establishing the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and strengthening our justice systems.  Because of VAWA, a future where all women, individuals, and their families are empowered to live free from violence is possible.

At Mosaic, we see the impact of VAWA every day and we recognize that many of the opportunities and resources that exist today were not available 30 years ago. VAWA has saved countless lives, but the work is far from over. Together, we can ensure that the next 30 years are even more transformative.

To everyone who has championed the Violence Against Women Act – thank you for your courage, strength, and compassion.