NNEDV Statement on the Death of Congresswoman Louise Slaughter

March 16, 2018

“Congresswoman Louise Slaughter was a tremendous advocate for women, especially for victims and survivors, and we all feel this loss deeply,” said Kim Gandy, president and CEO of the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV). “She was an original co-sponsor of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which, upon its passage in 1994, became the cornerstone of our nation’s response to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.”

Congresswoman Slaughter has been a staunch supporter of VAWA ever since, having supported every reauthorization, and she recently hosted an event in her district urging swift passage of the 2018 reauthorization ahead of its expiration this year. In 2013, she joined us in the effort to ensure that VAWA included expanded protections for LGBTQ, Native American, and campus victims.

“Her leadership ensured that VAWA delivered on its promise of empowering survivors and funding critical programs that to help victims achieve safety and security,” said Gandy. “The nation has lost a dedicated champion who was committed to ending domestic violence. After more than 30 years in Congress, she leaves a legacy of leadership that will live for generations.”