[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 84 (Tuesday, June 28, 1994)]
[House]
[Page H]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: June 28, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                           DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under the Speaker's announced policy of 
February 11, 1994, and June 10, 1994, the gentlewoman from North 
Carolina [Mrs. Clayton] is recognized during morning business for 2 
minutes.
  Mrs. CLAYTON. Madam Speaker, domestic violence is the most common 
form of violence, yet it is the least reported crime. Domestic violence 
results in more injuries which require medical treatment than rape, 
auto accidents, and muggings combined. This is a problem that knows no 
boundaries. The majority of domestic violence victims are women--women 
of all ages, all races, all income, and all education levels.
  Domestic violence has reached epidemic proportions in the United 
States, women not only have to fear for their safety on city streets, 
but also in their own homes. In the very place they should feel safe. 
Yet daily there are women killed in their homes by a spouse or partner 
they love and trust. I ask you why then it takes the death of the wife 
of a national celebrity to bring this issue to the forefront. Is one 
life more previous than another?
  This is not a new problem in our society, but one which is finally 
obtaining the national attention it deserves. We have come a long way 
from the days a woman was told by friends and family, law enforcement 
agencies, and even clergy that she must be doing something wrong to 
provoke such irrational behavior. But we have an even longer road to 
go.
  We as lawmakers must show women that they do not stand alone, that we 
are making strides to give back their safety and their lives. H.R. 
1133, the Violence Against Women Act is just that kind of legislation. 
I cosponsored this legislation and I want to see it passed into law. I 
want to see more rigid enforcement and sentencing of abusers. I want to 
see additional funding for programs for victims of sexual assault and 
domestic violence. I want to see the courts treat these women like 
victims, not like criminals. I want to see a national toll-free hotline 
funded which will provide assistance to these victims. I believe in 
H.R. 1133 and I know that it will make a difference.
  We must give these women hope; we must show them they are not alone 
and that we care. This bill will empower women by letting them know 
that finally the law is on their side.

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