Help stop violence against women

Today, November 25, the fourth Thursday in November, is Thanksgiving Day in the U.S.

November 25 is also the date on which the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

According to the Family Violence Prevention Fund(FVPF), "One in three women around the world has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused in her lifetime. It’s happening to someone right now, as you read this."

So the FVPF and other organizations are pushing for passage of the International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA - HR4594/S2982) during the current lame-duck session of Congress. The bill has been stalled in Congress since February.

According to the FVPF, "The [IVAWA] would improve our government’s response when women and girls are victims of sex trafficking and rape during war and would provide aid to women’s groups on the ground that are working to help survivors of domestic and sexual violence. It would focus resources on prevention and ensure that our dollars are used in the most effective ways possible to help the people who need it most. In some countries, it truly could mean the difference between life and death for a woman or girl."

In the grand scheme of things, isn't this a bit more important than extending tax cuts for the very rich?

How you can help:

In observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, please urge your Senators and Representative to Support IVAWA.

>> Click here to take action online.

And, on this Thanksgiving holiday, let's be thankful for good organizations like the FVPF.