February 5, 2013 United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator, On behalf of the 1.

5 million members of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), I urge you to support S. 47, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA), and to vote against any amendments that would weaken this important legislation. This legislation will continue to curb domestic violence against victims who seek safety and independence from their spouses or intimate partners. The bill also will help to reduce the broadened impact that intimate partner violence has on communities across the nation by providing federal resources that encourage coordinated responses to combat this form of violence. The legislation also would expand protections for gay and lesbian victims as well as Native Americans. VAWAs record of effectiveness is indisputable. Since the laws enactment in 1994, reports of domestic violence have dropped more than 50 percent. In addition, all 50 states have passed laws that help combat intimate partner violence. More remains to be done, however. We know that approximately 2.3 million people are violently assaulted by a current or former partner every year. And, on average, three women are killed every day by current or former partners, while nearly 1 in 4 is either beaten or raped by a partner every year. The toll of domestic abuse extends beyond its direct victims. Family members also feel its impact particularly the 15.5 million children who witness domestic violence every year. And we know that children exposed to violence stand a greater chance of attempting suicide, abusing drugs and alcohol, running away from home, engaging in teenage prostitution and committing sexual assaults. Domestic violence costs U.S. communities billions annually in medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and a diminished quality of life for those affected by these crimes. But, because many communities lack the resources needed to fight and eradicate domestic abuse, thousands of victims needs are not served. Reauthorization of VAWA will help communities access more resources to implement prevention strategies and to offer more educational programs aimed at further decreasing the incidence of domestic abuse among their residents.

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The AFT believes that supporting policies that fund and promote education about domestic violence is essential in preventing such violence. I urge you to support this legislation and to oppose any amendments that would weaken it. Thank you for considering the AFTs views on this important matter. Sincerely,

Randi Weingarten President RW:emc opeiu#2 afl-cio