A Proclamation on National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, 2023 | The White House

Sustainable Development Goals and National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month

Introduction

Domestic violence affects every community in the United States, transcending race, religion, and background. Its consequences have a lasting impact on individuals, families, and future generations. During National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, we recognize the millions of people who have experienced intimate partner violence and express gratitude to the first responders, service providers, and community members who strive to create a safe and respectful environment for all Americans.

The Fight Against Domestic Violence

The abuse of power, particularly within intimate relationships, is considered one of the most severe sins. However, just a few decades ago, domestic violence was often hidden from public view. Survivors felt shame, and society turned a blind eye to what was dismissed as a “family affair.”

Over the past 30 years, significant efforts have been made to address gender-based violence in the United States and globally. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), enacted in 1990, played a crucial role in shifting the legal and social burdens away from survivors. It raised awareness by sharing the stories of brave survivors and established essential support systems such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline. VAWA also provided funding for shelters, rape crisis centers, housing, legal assistance, and training programs for law enforcement and judicial professionals.

Progress Through Reauthorization

Since its inception, VAWA has been reauthorized multiple times, leading to significant improvements. In 2000, stalking and sexual assault were included within its scope. In 2005, access to services for immigrants and communities of color was expanded. In 2013, the law recognized the criminal jurisdiction of Tribal courts over non-Indian perpetrators and provided protections for LGBTQI+ individuals.

Last year, VAWA was reauthorized once again, strengthening access to services for survivors from underserved and marginalized communities. It also expanded special Tribal criminal jurisdiction and addressed cybercrimes and online harassment and abuse. The Federal Government’s investment in gender-based violence programs reached a historic high of $700 million this year and is set to increase to $1 billion in the next budget.

Comprehensive Approaches

In addition to VAWA, other laws have been enacted to address domestic violence comprehensively. A significant gun safety law was signed to prevent convicted domestic abusers from accessing firearms. The Crime Victims Fund was sustained to assist domestic violence survivors with expenses related to abuse. Legislation empowering survivors of workplace sexual assault and harassment to take legal action was also signed.

The military has undergone transformative changes in how it prosecutes sexual assault and domestic violence, including the establishment of specialized prosecutors independent from commanders. Civil causes of action were created for victims of non-consensual sharing of intimate photos, and efforts are being made to combat the spread of deepfake non-consensual images. Last May, the first-ever National Plan to End Gender-Based Violence was released, outlining a comprehensive approach to prevent and address various forms of gender-based violence.

Remaining Challenges

Despite the progress made, there is still work to be done. Four in 10 American women and nearly 3 in 10 American men experience sexual abuse, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner at some point in their lives. Immediate and confidential support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline for those in need.

Conclusion

No survivor should feel alone, and everyone deserves a life free from violence. By raising awareness, changing societal norms, supporting survivors, and implementing preventive measures, we can create a nation where all individuals live free from gender-based violence.

Proclamation

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, proclaim October 2023 as National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. I call upon each of us to challenge social norms that perpetuate domestic violence, provide meaningful support to survivors, and express gratitude to those dedicated to prevention and response efforts. Together, we can transform our country and build a nation where all people live free from violence.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand this twenty-ninth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres.
• SDG 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No specific indicators are mentioned in the article. However, progress towards the identified targets can be measured through indicators such as:

• Number of reported cases of domestic violence
• Number of survivors receiving support and services
• Number of laws and policies implemented to address domestic violence
• Level of awareness and understanding of domestic violence among the general population

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: whitehouse.gov

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