FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 22, 2019
Contact: Jolene Cardenas,
Director of Communications and Community Engagement
Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA)
Direct Line: 720.330.8922
Email: jolene@ccasa.org
Website: www.ccasa.org
CCASA STAFF MEETS WITH SEN. GARDNER OFFICE, URGE BIPARTISAN SUPPORT OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT
DENVER, CO – In April, the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA) applauded the bipartisan U.S. House of Representatives passage of H.R. 1585 the Violence Against Women Re-authorization Act (VAWA) of 2019. Historically, VAWA has always been reauthorized with strong bipartisan support and strengthened protections for survivors. On Wednesday morning, CCASA Executive Director Brie Franklin
met with U.S. Senator Cory Gardner’s office to discuss why it is imperative that the U.S. Senate take action as soon as possible on bringing a vote on the current version of VAWA.
VAWA is key to preventing & helping victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating-violence, and stalking. This legislation provides law enforcement with new tools to protect their communities; offers protections for survivors in federal public, subsidized, and assisted housing; supports victims and survivors who need assistance rebuilding financially; addresses the needs of underserved communities; and improves the healthcare responses.
We learn more every year about the best ways to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. A VAWA reauthorization process allows us to make use of that knowledge and help victims now. CCASA staff and membership is grateful that Senator Gardner met with us this week. Our communities cannot afford any more delay on a VAWA vote. We strongly urge Senators Bennet and Gardner to work together to keep the work of the House of Representatives intact and pass a resolute VAWA for all.
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Interviews available upon request
The Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA) provides leadership, advocacy, and support to address and prevent sexual violence.