Velazquez on Violence Against Women Act

Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) spoke on the floor of the House today regarding legislation to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act. Velázquez criticized the House amendment to the bill for weakening the legislation and failing to protect all victims equally. Following are Velázquez's remarks:

"Mr. Speaker, twice in two decades Members of both parties crossed party lines to reauthorize the 'Violence Against Women Act.' Yet, this week, we are considering a partisan bill that excludes some victims based on sexual orientation or immigration status.

"Does abuse not 'count' if the victim happens to be a gay man or a lesbian? What if the victim is an undocumented worker? Here are some facts my GOP colleagues may be unaware of -- 40% of gay men experience domestic abuse as do 50% of lesbian women. For undocumented women, abuse rates are likely higher than the rest of the population -- but go unreported for fear of deportation.

"Those are millions of people and thousands of New Yorkers who are being hurt. This legislation adds insult to their injury by basically saying "because of who you are, we won't help you." I hope my Republican colleagues agree that's not the message we want to send. Vote no on the rule and the underlying bill -- so we can approve a real 'Violence Against Women Act' that protects all victims equally."

"I yield back."