1. United States
2. Letter

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a crucial piece of legislation that provides essential resources and protections for survivors of domestic violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Its recent reauthorization is a positive step, but survivors would benefit even more from the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) being ratified. The ERA would enshrine gender equality in the Constitution, providing a stronger legal foundation for Congress to enact robust laws addressing gender-based violence, including restoring the ability for survivors to seek accountability through civil lawsuits against their assailants. With the rise in domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an urgent need for comprehensive legal protections and resources for survivors. Passing the ERA would signal an unwavering commitment to ending gender-based violence and ensuring justice for all survivors.