The President has directed the Departments of Justice and Health and Human Services to assist States in implementing this provision. These steps are encouraging signs that the nation is working toward ending family violence. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we should recognize not only how far we've come in the battle against domestic violence but that there is still much work ahead of us. Let this national observance be the first step into an awareness that lasts 12 months of the year. And let that result in the elimination once and for all of this malady that haunts so many of our families.
Religious leaders are in powerful positions to help women and families escape from violence.
Domestic violence and sexual assault are notoriously underreported crimes, and, as religious leaders, we may be the only recourse a battered woman has. Perhaps fearing retribution from her abuser or feeling intimidated by the legal system or even shame over her predicament, a woman may be reluctant to turn to the police or social services for aid. We are often the only link connecting her with the help she so desperately needs. We can be both a safe haven for the abused and a first step toward accountability for the abuser. Against Women sponsored jointly by the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA, the National Jewish Community Relations Advisory Council, and the Center for the Prevention of Sexual and Domestic Violence.