Supporting Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence: Resources for Attorneys and Advocates

By Sarah Hur, Deputy Director, National Restraining Order Center April 2026 Attorneys and advocates working with Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) survivors of intimate-partner violence often navigate a complex intersection of cultural and linguistic differences that shape how survivors engage with the legal system.  At the National Restraining Order…

2026 BWJP Rising Stars – Meghan Dunlap

“When it comes to gender-based violence, you just never know what’s going on behind closed doors, so you have to have an open mind, and an open heart, and be there for people.”  - Meghan Dunlap, Communications Associate, External Relations March is Women’s History Month, and this month we are featuring…

Everyone’s Mother-In-Law

By Cindene Pezzell, Esq. Director, The National Defense Center for Criminalized Survivors Clara Shortridge Foltz This is the time of year that the justice community celebrates Clarence Earl Gideon. On March 18, 1963, his landmark case before the United States Supreme Court enshrined the Constitutional right to counsel for indigent people charged with crimes. The mandate that states fund representation…

2026 BWJP Rising Stars – Irene Avina

“Being able to create a vision for the future comes from safety and safe relationships.” -Irene Avina, LCSW, MSW, Project Assistant, Firearms Technical Assistance Project   As we recognize Women’s History Month, we are highlighting Rising Stars, members of our staff building on the legacy of so many leaders in our movement.  …

2026 BWJP Rising Stars – Patrick Cunningham

  “It’s important to treat people with kindness and empathy. Just because somebody has a charge doesn’t mean they’re a monster. That distinction is important.” -Patrick Cunningham, Defense Based Advocate, National Defense Center for Criminalized Survivors   This month we are featuring some of the Rising Stars of BWJP who are rising through the ranks and actively impacting our movement.    Meet Patrick Cunningham, an…

2026 BWJP Rising Stars – Saba Ghori

“The driving force for me is this need to make change from the grassroots, at the community level, and start changing these stories for women.” - Saba Ghori, Director, Center on Global Rights for Women March is Women’s History Month, and Sunday is International Women’s Day and to celebrate this month we are featuring some of…

What I Learned While Working with Young Survivors 

By: Megan BeldenESQ. Senior Attorney Advisor, National Restraining Order Center One in three.  That’s how many teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by someone that they are in a relationship with during their teenage years.1   My first job as a real-life attorney, actually representing survivors of intimate partner violence in court, was at the non-profit Break the…

GrokAI, NCII, and the Fight to Protect Women and Girls Online 

By: Rachel E. Barkley, JD MBA, Staff Attorney, National Center for Legal Approaches to Prevent Family Violence Late December 2025, X users began leveraging GrokAI, X’s automated chatbot, to create nonconsensual sexually suggestive and explicit images of women and children. These images, which were developed through Grok’s image generation tools and its recently…

Opening Doors for Trafficking Survivors

Each January, Human Trafficking Awareness Month invites us to confront a form of violence that is widespread, often hidden, and deeply interconnected with other forms of harm. Human trafficking—including both sex trafficking and labor trafficking—rarely occurs in isolation. While sex trafficking often receives more public and media attention, labor trafficking…

Savanna’s Law: What Tennessee’s New Domestic Violence Registry Means for Safety and Accountability

By: Jennifer Waindle, MS, Deputy Director, National Center on Legal Approaches to Prevent Family Violence  Tennessee has begun implementing a new law designed to increase public awareness and safety by registering repeat domestic violence offenders. Formally known as “Savanna’s Law,” House Bill 1200 was signed by Governor Bill Lee on…

Thoughts The Days After- A Poem 

By Avery-Grace Blanco, SAVES National Clearinghouse, National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence Project Assistant  “Thoughts the Days After” is a deeply personal piece about the aftermath of being stalked and attacked by someone I once considered a close friend. It explores the slow, painful unraveling of trust—the moment when…

Reflections from the University of Miami’s Human Rights in the Americas Symposium 

By Saba Ghori, Center for Global Rights for Women at BWJP In November 2025, I had the privilege of representing the Center for Global Rights for Women (GRW) at BWJP at the University of Miami’s Human Rights in the Americas Symposium, a week-long gathering of human rights leaders, scholars, and…

Enter The Manosphere 

By: Rachel E. Barkley, JD MBA, Staff Attorney, National Center for Legal Approaches to Prevent Family Violence I was born in 1996.  I grew up in a home with a family computer that took up space in our recreation room, and eventually, secured my own coveted lime green Dell Inspiron…

One in Three Women. A Pandemic We Still Refuse to Confront. 

“Justice isn't just punishment for the accused. It's systematic accountability. It's institutions admitting when they've failed sexual assault survivors, when negligence caused harm, and then having the courage to change...This moment began with Epstein’s crimes, but it’s going to be remembered for survivors demanding justice, demanding truth, demanding accountability."  …

Reclaiming the Holidays: A Season Rewritten With Courage, Comfort, and Joy

By Esther Aparicio, Diana Griffin, Sharonna Lee Across our BWJP community, survivors are powerfully reshaping the season into something that finally feels like safety, choice, and peace. And we hope you know, you deserve nothing less. Your stories and theirs remind us that reclaiming the holidays doesn’t always happen in…

National and Community Leaders Convene in Chicago to Launch MOSAIC Initiative

  Amidst current challenges, it is more important than ever to embrace new strategies to end gender-based violence. Towards that end, BWJP continues to expand partnerships across sectors, leverage diverse resources, and support the development of effective blueprints for safety and wellbeing to assist local communities and Tribes.    In collaboration…

Dignity Denied – Reclaiming Control After Fleeing Domestic Violence

By Avery-Grace Blanco, SAVES National Clearinghouse, National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence Project Assistant  Imagine you only have 15 minutes to pack your belongings from your home, and you will never return. What would you take? This is the harsh reality of what’s known as a civil standby,…

The Silent Battle: Honoring Veterans While Confronting Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault in the Military

By Patrick Cunningham, Defense Based Advocate, National Defense Center for Criminalized Survivors, Battered Women’s Justice Project, US Army Veteran 1999-2006  Veterans Day is a time to honor the courage, sacrifice, and selfless service of those who have worn the uniform. It’s a moment to reflect on the bravery of our…

Every Survivor, Every Story: Why the Epstein Files Matter Beyond One Case

By Alyssa Toledo. Communications Associate On a humid afternoon in Washington, survivors gathered outside the Capitol clutching handwritten notes. They had come not just to share their stories but to demand something more fundamental: truth. “We deserve transparency,” one survivor said, her voice carrying the weight of years spent fighting…

BWJP Welcomes Saba Ghori, MA, MPA, as the new Director for The Center on Global Rights For Women  

Saba Ghori is a seasoned diplomat and development expert, having worked for over two decades as an advocate for women’s rights for both the US Government and different NGOs, including Women for Women International and Vital Voices. At Women for Women International, Saba oversaw and designed their social empowerment programs…

Celebrating the New Center on Global Rights for Women 

By Patricia Cumbie  BWJP was thrilled to host an in-person open house at our office in St. Paul, MN to welcome our newest center, the Center on Global Rights for Women. We were able to welcome over 60+ attendees, including our community partners, BWJP staff and long-term supporters from Global…

BWJP Welcomes Patricia Cumbie, as the new Donor Relations Writer on the BWJP External Relations Team

Patricia Cumbie’s career has been focused on working with mission-driven organizations seeking to tell their stories through partnership and collaboration.  She is an award-winning writer and communicator, with experience in storytelling, publication production, marketing and public speaking.  Patricia is also the founding editor of two newspapers and the author of…

We are Hiring! Chief Advancement Officer

 Open Position Announcement: Chief Advancement Officer  Location: Remote | Travel Required  About BWJP  Founded in 1993, the Battered Women’s Justice Project (BWJP) is the national leader at the intersection of intimate partner violence and legal systems. BWJP is recognized for advancing bold solutions that center domestic violence survivors, strengthening justice…

BWJP Welcomes Rosie Hidalgo as the new Co-Director of the MOSAIC Initiative with the Reimagining Coordinated Community Response Center  

Rosie Hidalgo is serving as the Co-Director of the MOSAIC Initiative as a Senior Consultant at BWJP’s National Center on Reimagining Coordinated Community Response. She is also a Visiting Senior Research Scholar in the Human Rights Program of the University of Miami School of Law. Rosie previously served as the…

BWJP Welcomes Lynn Rosenthal, as the new Co-director, the MOSAIC Initiative

As an executive and policy advisor in government and nonprofit sectors, Lynn Rosenthal has worked on gender equity and gender-based violence prevention for three decades. Arriving to the field from a grassroots background, Lynn has served in community-based women’s health centers, domestic violence shelters, and state domestic violence coalitions. As…

What These Cases of High-Profile Accusers Reveal About the Credibility Gap

By Rachel Elizabeth Barkley, JD MBA R&B artist Casandra Ventura, who is known professionally as Cassie, took the stand in the federal trial of Sean “P. Diddy” Combs on May 13th. As the prosecution’s star witness, Cassie’s testimony provided a foundation for establishing the government’s charges of sex-trafficking and racketeering…

BWJP Welcomes Cheryl Thomas, as the new Senior Attorney Advisor for The Center on Global Rights for Women

Cheryl has worked with partners around the world to promote women’s human rights and achieve systemic and legal reform to end violence against women and girls since 1993.  She has participated in the drafting of laws on violence against women and girls and led training to enforce such laws in…

BIG NEWS! BWJP is Expanding Globally!

A Powerful New Chapter: Global Rights for Women Joins Forces with the Battered Women’s Justice Project We are thrilled to share exciting news with you: Global Rights for Women (GRW) has merged with the Battered Women’s Justice Project (BWJP) to form a new BWJP Center, the Center on Global Rights…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Global Rights for Women and Battered Women’s Justice Project Merger Announcement

Global Rights for Women and Battered Women’s Justice Project Merger Announcement Contact:  BWJP Communications, communications@bwjp.org Cheryl Thomas, Executive Director, Global Rights for Women, cthomas@grwomen.org MINNEAPOLIS, MN—Global Rights for Women (GRW) has officially merged with the Battered Women’s Justice Project (BWJP), becoming the Center on Global Rights for Women—the latest specialized…

Building a SAFeR System: Preventing Tragedy in Child Custody Outcomes

By Kaitlyn Baker, Intern, National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence When the justice system fails to protect its most vulnerable, the effects are tragic. On June 2, 2025, the bodies of three young sisters-Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker-were discovered, murdered, in a Washington campground. Paityn was 9 years…

BWJP Welcomes Brittany Tucker, as the new Senior Project Manager/Staff Attorney of the Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP)

I’m a Michigander through and through, I’ve lived in other places but there’s no place like home. I received my law degree and doctoral degree from Michigan State University, GO GREEN, GO WHITE, where I studied family dynamics, race and ethnicity, and law and society. Prior to coming to BWJP,…

BWJP Welcomes Rosario de la Torre, as the new Senior Community and Advocacy Liaison , National Systems Change and Advocacy Center 

Rosario de la Torre, a proud Latina from Mexico City, came to the United States in 1986 with her parents and siblings to attended school and learn English, with the idea of returning one day. For the last 30 years Rosario has been devoted to support survivors in the areas…

BWJP Welcomes Avery-Grace Blanco, as the new Project Assistant for SAVES National Clearing House, National Legal Center on Childrenand Domestic Violence

Avery-Grace Blanco has been working with survivors and their families for nine years, since she was a senior in high school. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in three years from the Metropolitan State University of Denver and took graduate level coursework focused on human rights and social justice…

Introducing the National Restraining Order Center (NROC) Expanding Safety and Access for Survivors  

Introducing the National Restraining Order Center (NROC) Expanding Safety and Access for Survivors    At BWJP, we are committed to strengthening legal protections for survivors of gender-based violence. That’s why we’re launching the National Restraining Order Center (NROC)—a new, comprehensive Center that expands our work on restraining orders to better serve…

Money Changes Everything! Why Child Support Matters

By: Esther Aparicio, Esq., SAVES Attorney Advisor “Why don’t you just leave?” It’s a question many survivors of domestic violence hear all too often—one that is not only hurtful and judgmental but dangerously overlooks the increased risks that survivors face when trying to escape an abusive situation. For many, escaping…

The Fire We Ignored: What Cody Balmer’s Case Reveals About Domestic Violence

By Diana Griffin, Esq. Attorney Advisor, National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence This April, as we honor Child Abuse Awareness Month, we are reminded that every child is not guaranteed safety in their home. The recent incident, where Cody Balmer set fire to Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro’s residence, highlights…

Loving Out Loud: Navigating Queer Teen Dating Violence Amidst Political Turbulence 

By Alyssa Toledo, Communications Associate I've spent most of my life searching for freedom.  As a queer, Mexican American kid growing up in a turbulent home, I learned early how to survive by making myself small—by hiding, by quieting my voice, by pretending everything was fine. But survival isn't the…

BWJP Welcomes Esther Aparicio, as the new Attorney Advisor for SAVES

Esther is passionate about advocacy for survivors of domestic violence. Prior to joining BWJP, Esther worked for Northeast New Jersey Legal services providing legal representation in all areas of family law. More recently, Esther served as a Senior Staff Attorney at Partners, representing survivors of domestic violence in final restraining…

BWJP 2025 Goals: Supporting Survivors and Changing Systems  

By BWJP Staff As we start 2025, many people set goals to improve their lives. These goals might include saving money, getting healthier, or fixing things they struggled with before. While personal goals help us grow and may change throughout the years, BWJP stays focused on our mission to promote…

BWJP Welcomes Ahlam Moussa, as the new Deputy Director for the National Center for Systems Change & Advocacy

I’ve been working with non-profits for over a decade in various roles. For the past 11+ years, I’ve been with a national non-profit advocating for immigrant survivors, focusing on operations, financial management, communications, and broader organizational needs. My work has centered on building strong infrastructure to better support and strengthen…

BWJP Welcomes Annie Struby, as the new Project Director for the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms 

Annie began working in the gender-based violence field over 20 years ago. For the last 14 years, she led coordinated community response efforts for Rose Brooks Center in Kansas City, Missouri. She worked with police, prosecutors, probation and parole officers and other professionals to enhance victim safety and offender accountability.…

Finding Peace During the Holidays When You Are a Survivor of Sexual Violence 

By Christina M. Jones, Esq.   The holidays can be a challenging time, especially for survivors of sexual assault who may feel anxious about encountering their abuser.   Sexual violence often comes from someone familiar, not a stranger. Research indicates that 90% of survivors know the person who harmed them. For many,…

BWJP Welcomes Alyssa Toledo as the new Communications Associate at BWJP 

BWJP Welcomes Alyssa Toledo, as the new Comms Associate at BWJP.  BWJP is excited to welcome Alyssa to our team. With a rich background in film and storytelling, Alyssa brings a unique perspective to our mission of improving the family court system and supporting those impacted by gender-based violence. Her…

Beyond Awareness: Advocating For Children’s Safety In Family Court  

By Diana Griffin, Attorney Advisor, National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence In November, following Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we continue the conversation by focusing on children’s safety in custody cases involving family violence. Access to representation helps survivors advocate for their own and their children's safety. Yet, in…

What Can Non-Native Aspiring Allies Do to Honor National Native American Heritage Month? 

Seek to understand Tribal Sovereignty By Cindene Pezzell, Esq., Director of the National Defense Center for Criminalized Survivors At first glance, two devastating consequences of the colonization of the Americas appear contradictory:  Indigenous women and girls are disproportionately victims of gender-based violence. According to a 2016 study by the National…

Celebrating 40 Years of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) 

A Message from Amy Sánchez, CEO of the Battered Women's Justice Project  This October, we proudly celebrate 40 years of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA), the first federal legislation dedicated to supporting emergency shelters and services for victims of domestic violence and their families. Over the past…

Why We Stayed Series

By Patrice Tillery and Veronica Thomas This 3-part Survivor Story Series by Patrice Tillery and Veronica Thomas explores the complex reasons why survivors may stay in abusive relationships and what eventually gives them the strength to leave. The series aims to unveil the invisible barriers—emotional, financial, and psychological—that trap survivors,…

Part 3: Why We Left: The Breaking Point & Finding the Strength to Finally Leave

Why We Stayed Series  (Some identifying information such as names, dates, and locations have been redacted to protect the identities of survivors telling their stories.)  By Patrice Tillery and Veronica Thomas  Deciding to leave an abusive relationship is a painful journey marked by deep internal conflict. For many survivors, the…

Part 2: Why We Stayed: The Struggle with Hope, Identity and Courage

Why We Stayed Series  (Some identifying information such as names, dates, and locations have been redacted to protect the identities of survivors telling their stories.)  By Patrice Tillery and Veronica Thomas  Patrice and Veronica share their experiences to shed light on the complexities of gender-based violence (GBV). Telling their stories…

Part 1: Why We Stayed: Unveiling the Invisible Barriers to Escaping Abuse 

Why We Stayed Series  (Some identifying information such as names, dates, and locations have been redacted to protect the identities of survivors telling their stories.)  By Patrice Tillery and Veronica Thomas  “If he was so abusive, then why did she stay?”  Often, when people hear about someone in an abusive…

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series 

"Things Survivors Wish You Knew" is a heartfelt and empowering series, rooted in the voices of survivors of gender-based violence. This collection shares stories and insights to help build understanding and offer meaningful support for those navigating abusive situations. From practical advice to emotional support, this series explores key messages…

Part 7: Things I Wish I Knew: Some Notes from a Survivor’s Perspective 

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series  By Patrice Tillery As we close out this series, we wanted to end with a note directly from a survivor. There are many things we have shared this month about common themes that survivors of gender-based violence express that they wish their loved ones…

Part 6: Remember, It Is Not My Fault  

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series  By Patrice Tillery In addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, it is crucial to recognize and combat the all-too-common phenomenon of victim blaming. Unfortunately, victims are often wrongly held responsible for the abuse they endure, perpetuating harmful myths and misconceptions within society.   It…

Part 5: Be Patient  

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series  By Patrice Tillery Today's Things Survivors Wish You Knew topic is patience. Patience is the ability to remain calm and tolerant in facing difficulties, adversity, or delays without becoming frustrated or upset. It entails the capacity to endure or wait calmly for something, demonstrating…

Part 4: Understanding the Impact of Trauma  

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series  By Patrice Tillery Understanding trauma in abuse victims is crucial for providing adequate support and care. Trauma can alter how individuals perceive and respond to the world around them and often leaves enduring emotional and psychological scars. Survivors of abuse may exhibit a range…

Part 3: Respect Survivors’ Choices

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series  By Patrice Tillery The topic for this portion of the series is arguably one of the most challenging parts of supporting survivors. After actively listening and learning about the trauma and abuse occurring in a survivor’s life, it’s hard not to step in, share…

Part 2: Believe Survivors, Listen to them, Don’t Pressure Them  

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series  By Patrice Tillery During challenging times, we rely on hope to bring light when we perceive darkness surrounding us. BWJP invites you to join us in generating the hope that lights the way to safety and healing for gender-based violence survivors.     Throughout this series,…

Part 1: Empower H.E.R. Stories of Hope, Equality, and Resilience 

Things Survivors Wish You Knew Series  By Patrice Tillery As a survivor-centered organization, BWJP approaches its work from the survivors' perspective. From this focus, we created our Gift Justice 2023 holiday campaign, focusing on Things Survivors Wish You Knew. We had such a positive reaction to this campaign that we…

VAWA at 30: BWJP’s Role in Evolving Responses to Gender-Based Violence

By Amalfi Parker Elder, Esq., Director, National Center on Reimagining CCR BWJP is excited to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the historic enactment of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in 1994. VAWA’s passage represented Congress’ recognition of the pandemic of gender-based violence, and the decades-long efforts of survivors and…

Latin@ Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together 

By Lumarie Orozco, MA, Project Director, Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP)  Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration in the United States that recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic and Latino individuals and communities to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. It is observed from September…

BWJP Welcomes Rachel Barkley, as the new Staff Attorney for the Center for Legal Approaches to Prevent Family Violence

Rachel Barkley (they/she) recently graduated from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and took the New York Bar Exam. Prior to law school, Rachel received their Master of Business Administration in Music Business from Southern New Hampshire University and Berklee College of Music and their Bachelor of Arts in Screenwriting…

BWJP Welcomes Megan Belden, Esq. as the Senior Attorney Advisor for the National Center on Protection Orders and Full Faith and Credit

Megan Belden is a Senior Attorney Advisor at the National Center for Protection Orders and Full Faith and Credit with Battered Women’s Justice Project, where she provides training and guidance to community allies on local, state, tribal, and nationwide protective order issues.  Megan has been committed to combating gender-based violence…

BWJP Welcomes Jillian Young, as the new SAVES Project Director

Jillian has spent over a decade supporting victim-survivors of domestic violence and leading system change within the legal and child welfare system. Her previous roles include leading the legal advocacy program at a local DV agency in Madison, WI and managing various programs and initiatives to support children placed in…

Navigating Situationships: Recognizing Emotional Abuse and Setting Boundaries

By Meghan Dunlap In today’s world, dating has become more casual. Many younger people describe their relationships more informally and flexibly, often referring to them as “situationships,” a popular term among high school and college-age students.    A situationship is a romantic or sexual relationship between two individuals. Usually, there are…

Community Supervision Officers and Domestic Violence Response

By Jennifer L. Waindle Effective responses to domestic violence require collaborative, coordinated efforts in partnership with a variety of professionals and organizations. Too often, community supervision officers and other justice system agencies have worked in unintended isolation. Understanding the roles of probation and parole community supervision officers is crucial in…

Neurodiversity and the Legal System’s Response to Domestic Violence

By Kristine Lizdas, Esq. “Neurodiversity” and “neurodivergent” as terms or concepts emerged several decades ago to express variations in human experiences and as a rejection of otherwise deficit-based language. Individuals with a wide variety of developmental and psychological diagnoses embrace the term as an affirmation, as well as a framework…

We’re Hiring! Training and Technical Assistance Specialist or Attorney Advisor

NRCDVF seeks to fill a grant-funded, fully remote Attorney Advisor or Training and Technical Assistance Specialist position. The Battered Women’s Justice Project (BWJP) is a collective of national policy and practice centers at the intersection of gender-based violence (GBV) and legal systems, including the National Center on Gun Violence in…

A Victory for Survivors: Supreme Court Upholds Federal Domestic Violence Protection Order Firearms Prohibitor 

In good news for survivors of domestic violence, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision today in U.S. v. Rahimi that upholds 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8), a federal law in place since 1994 that says people subject to certain domestic violence protection orders (DVPO) may not have access to a gun while that…

SCOTUS Ruling in Rahimi Case Upholds Protections for Domestic Violence Survivors, BWJP Experts Celebrate 

BWJP Advocates Applaud Supreme Court Decision to Maintain Gun Control Law Safeguarding Domestic Violence Survivors WASHINGTON DC. (June 21, 2024) In a landmark 8-1 decision, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) has upheld a significant gun control law, prompting widespread relief and celebration among domestic violence experts and…

From Fear to Pride: A Journey of Resilience 

By Kenneth E. Noyes, Esq.  June is an explosion of color. Rainbow flags flutter from lampposts, shop windows sport dazzling displays, and the air thrums with vibrant energy. This is Pride Month, a time that holds a special significance for me as a gay man. It's a celebration, a protest,…

The Unseen Harms of Guns in Domestic Violence 

By Jennifer M. Becker, Esq. Director, National Center on Gun Violence in Relationships  When we talk about the intersection of domestic violence and gun violence we often focus on intimate partner gun homicides. Rightfully so, as we lose approximately 70 women each month in America at the hand of their…

BWJP Welcomes Diana Griffin as the new Attorney Advisor for the National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence

BWJP Welcomes Diana Griffin, as the new Attorney Advisor, the National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence. Diana earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Maryland. She spent her career, prior to joining BWJP, representing victim-survivors in family court and immigration matters. Diana is passionate about helping create…

BWJP Welcomes Lacey Garner as the new Director of The Learning Community!

Lacey has more than a decade of experience building client relationships and delivering complex research and technology solutions. Prior to joining BWJP, Lacey was a Vice President at 13D Research & Strategy, where she was responsible for relationships with foundations, family offices, and other corporate and investor clients. Lacey was also…

3 Ways to Improve Access to Civil Protection Orders for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Survivors

By the National Center on Protection Orders and Full Faith & Credit My friends told me I needed to get a restraining order, but I didn’t want to go through all the processes within the system . . . However, if I could go back and do it again, I…

Safe at Home: Exploring the Intersection of Intimate Partner Violence and Child Abuse Prevention

By The National Legal Center on Children and Domestic Violence April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness that child abuse and neglect are preventable through reshaping system responses by centralizing the voices of the children they are charged to protect. There is consistent research that…

Supporting Survivors On the Path to Healing from Sexual Assault 

By Meghan Dunlap Recovering from sexual assault can feel like you’re within a silo. You hear the statistics of 81% of women report sexual harassment or assault in their lifetime, and it pulls at your heartstrings, but it’s hard to grasp in real life. The reality is that every 68…

2024 BWJP Rising Stars – Amalfi

As we recognize Women’s History Month, we are highlighting some of the Rising Stars of BWJP: members of our staff who are rising through the ranks and actively impacting the movement. These young women are continually striving for excellence and building on the legacy that our foremothers have built. Today, we…

2024 BWJP Rising Stars – Victoria

As we recognize Women’s History Month, we are highlighting some of the Rising Stars of BWJP: members of our staff who are rising through the ranks and actively impacting the movement. These young women are continually striving for excellence and building on the legacy that our foremothers have built.  BWJP staff members…

2024 BWJP Rising Stars – Sophie

As we recognize Women’s History Month, we are highlighting some of the Rising Stars of BWJP: members of our staff who are rising through the ranks and actively impacting the movement. These young women are continually striving for excellence and building on the legacy that our foremothers have built.  BWJP staff members…

BWJP Newsletters

BWJP sends out a once-monthly email newsletter (we're not here to spam you) with the latest in domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking news, our upcoming webinars and training, most recent reports, amicus briefs, research, info on events happening soon, and our popular staff-written articles and…

BWJP Welcomes Zoë Barr as the new Operations Manager

Zoë is a graduate of St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN, an all-women college, with one of the most diverse student campuses in Minnesota.  Zoë has a background in team leadership and project management. She is looking forward to using her unique skills and experiences to support the operations…

In Celebration of  Women’s Struggles, Friendships, and Resistance

Sujata Warrier, PhD, Chief Strategy Officer, BWJP “We could think of feminist history as a history of snappy women. Perhaps we would be thinking of how what comes out of our own mouths is speaking this  history[1]”. – Sara Ahmed As we enter March and Women’s History month, I am…

Recognizing Common Ground on National Public Defender Day 

Gender-based violence thrives in power imbalance. Public defenders, champions of equal access to justice, play a crucial role in dismantling structures that perpetuate such violence. Sometimes, however, anti-IPV advocates and defense attorneys perceive themselves rooted on different sides of the justice divide. If this view sounds familiar to you, we’d…

BWJP Reflects on the Burnsville, MN Tragedy 

We are saddened by the tragic events in Burnsville, Minnesota that occurred on February 18, 2024.   BWJP is a national organization, and our headquarters are a short distance away in St. Paul. The surrounding circumstances are still developing, but it’s clear this is another example of the risk of…

Black Women, a History of Creating Our Own Spaces

By Amalfi Parker Elder, Esq. and Patrice Tillery “The most disrespected person in America is the Black woman. The most unprotected person in America is the Black woman. The most neglected person in America is the Black woman.” – Malcolm As we celebrate Black History Month (February) and Women's History Month (March)…

Financial Abuse:  What Financial Advisors Need to Know

By Amalfi Parker Elder, Esq. Director, National Center on Reimagining CCR, Victoria Taylor, Senior Communications Manager | Patrice Tillery, Fund Development Manager Financial Abuse in Domestic Violence Relationships   Financial advisors, bankers, and others working in the finance industry are more likely to work with survivors of domestic violence than they…

Addressing the Lethal Intersection of Teen Dating Violence and Firearms  

By Jennifer M. Becker, Esq. Director, National Center on Gun Violence in Relationships  and Project Director, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms  As we mark Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month 2024, it’s sobering to think of all the teens and families impacted since we last commemorated this just…

Embracing Authenticity: A Letter to Black Women Breaking Free from GBV 

By Christina M. Jones, Esq. Chief Executive of External Relations Dear Black Woman, I’m sure you have heard that you are a “Strong Black Woman.” And while that is generally true, I want to talk about why that archetype can be harmful when it comes to healing from trauma caused…

BWJP Welcomes Irene Avina, as the new Project Assistant of the Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP)

Irene Avina joins BWJP with a passion and dedication to the field of gender-based violence prevention. As a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Irene has spent the past several years working directly with survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in crisis intervention, safety planning, education, and trauma processing. Her…

BWJP Welcomes Jenna Wiggins, as the new Deputy Director of the Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP)

Jenna Wiggins joins BWJP with a background in social work, law, human services, child welfare, and domestic violence. She has spent the bulk of her career in various roles initiating and developing integrated model programs in Indian Country. Most recently, she served as the Human Services Director for the Eastern…

Stalking and the Predetermined Risk for Gun Violence 

By BWJP Staff Member and Jennifer Becker, Esq. Project Director, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms  It wasn’t until 1990 that any anti-stalking law existed within the United States. The real lived experiences of those subjected to stalking are still often misunderstood. Even today, many people associate stalking…

Unveiling the Shadows: Human Trafficking Amidst Immigration Struggles in 2024 

By Maria Jose Fletcher, Esq. Director BWJP’s National Center for Systems Change and Advocacy   As we welcome 2024, we are unfortunately confronted by global events that continue to cause massive movement of people escaping conflict, violence, and economic instability. It is only appropriate that during January, Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we…

Preparing for the Holidays as a Survivor of Gender-Based Violence 

By Sharonna Lee and Ana Martinez-Mullen Holidays can be a time of excitement and anticipation while also creating feelings of anxiety for survivors of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking.   Meant for reflection and focusing on family, friends, and relationships, this time of year can…

Amplifying Indigenous Voices: Celebrating National Native American Heritage Month Through Advocacy, Healing, and Justice 

  By BWJP Staff  As we recognize National Native American Heritage Month, we invite you to join us as we celebrate and raise the voices and experiences of Indigenous Survivors with two of our staff members – A and V - two committed professionals at BWJP, who reflect on their…

Supreme Court Set to Hear United States v. Rahimi Case: Domestic Violence Protection Orders Under Scrutiny 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nov 2, 2023, ST. PAUL, M.N. – On November 7, 2023, the United States Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments in the landmark case of United States v. Rahimi.   The case revolves around a critical issue for domestic violence survivors: the constitutionality of 18 U.S.C. §…

What You Need To Know About the Rahimi Case Coming Before the Supreme Court on November 7th 

BWJP Staff On November 7th, the United States Supreme Court will hear a case called U.S. v. Rahimi. It’s a case that is very important to survivors of domestic violence and the people who help them. In U.S. v. Rahimi, the Supreme Court will decide whether some people who have…

Another Perspective on the Hearing in United States v. Rahimi 

By Margaret Groban, Consultant at NRCDVF On November 7, 2023, the Supreme Court will hear argument in United States v. Rahimi, addressing the Second Amendment constitutionality of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8) — the federal firearm ban that covers persons subject to disqualifying protection orders. Andrew’s August 30 post discussed whether…

BWJP Welcomes Jennifer Becker, Esq., as the new Director, National Center on Gun Violence and Relationships and Project Director, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms 

Jennifer Becker, Esq. will serve as the Director, National Center on Gun Violence in Relationships and the Project Director, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms  Jennifer has been using the law to address gender-based violence for 15 years. Her career began as a prosecutor in New York City…

Navigating the ‘Red Zone’ on College Campuses – Tips to Preventing and Responding to Sexual Assault 

By Meghan Dunlap College campuses serve as hubs for academic achievement and where many students discover and build their independence. This newfound freedom can come with an adjustment period. The shift into college life can involve forming new friendships and immersing oneself in new social scenes. Yet through this transitional…

45 Years Later: Beverly Ann Ibn-Tamas’ Journey to Justice and Freedom  

By Cindene Pezzell, Esq. Instead of help, Beverly Ann Ibn-Tamas got prison time. It took 45 years for her to get justice.  For years, Ms. Ibn-Tamas was beaten and terrorized by her husband. In 1976, she was forced to defend herself against another attack, using the firearm her abuser held…

The Legal Issues in the Rahimi Case 

There are some important issues that arise in U.S. v. Rahimi, impacting the federal law that prohibits people subject to certain kinds of domestic violence protection orders (DVPO) from possessing firearms or ammunition (18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8)). The main issue, raised by Zackey Rahimi, the appellee in this case, is that…

Empowering Voices and Pursuing Justice: My Summer Internship Experience.

By Brionna Crawford, Intern, Summer 2023 My commitment to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities led me to pursue a summer internship at BWJP. When I learned about BWJP, I was inspired by the organization's commitment to and results for domestic violence survivors. Throughout this transformative experience, I had…

Post Separation Abuse. When to Consider Alternative Coparenting Methods with a High-Conflict Ex.

Anonymous What does Post-Separation Abuse Even Look Like?  For the first year after I left my abuser, he stalked me with an unrelenting focus at my dance classes, work, and home. He drove by my house and left random items on my car, texted and emailed me hundreds of times…

Four Ways to Get Back to School Safely When Using a Custody Agreement

Updated August 2025 For some parents and their children, the back-to-school season is exciting. It is full of gathering new school supplies, a new backpack, meeting new teachers and perhaps navigating a new school; for others experiencing domestic violence (DV), back to school can be stressful, full of fear and…

Addressing Minority Mental Health with Onyx Therapy Group

By Meghan Wilhelm and Victoria Taylor, BWJP Communications Team The time to break down barriers to mental health care for minorities is now. We know that there are culturally-significant risk factors among female minority survivors of gender-based violence that dramatically exacerbate mental health challenges. Trauma and distress resulting from gender-based…

BWJP is excited to congratulate the Biden Administration on the introduction of the White House National Plan to End Gender-Based Violence (the Plan)      

In response to the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV), the Federal Government builds upon existing federal initiatives to advance an “unprecedented and comprehensive approach to preventing and addressing sexual violence, intimate partner violence, stalking, and other forms of gender-based violence.”   The Plan executes its objectives through seven strategic pillars; (1)…

BWJP Congratulates Ms. Rosie Hidalgo on Confirmation as Director of the Office on Violence Against Women       

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  BWJP Congratulates Ms. Rosie Hidalgo on Confirmation as Director of the Office on Violence Against Women  St. Paul, Minnesota - July 11, 2023 - BWJP (Battered Women's Justice Project) is delighted to announce and celebrate the confirmation of Ms. Rosie Hidalgo as the Director of the Office…

A Statement of Support to Our LGBTQ+ Colleagues, Supporters, Donors and Survivors      

In honor and appreciation of #Pride month, BWJP highlights our core value of standing in strong support and solidarity with and for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. We are committed to transforming ourselves, our governance, and our operational structures to foster an environment of validation, recognition, education, and joy…

BWJP Announces the Award of the Firearms Technical Assistance Program by the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). 

BWJP will oversee training and technical assistance for OVW grantee communities to address domestic violence-related homicides and injuries committed with firearms.   St. Paul, Minnesota – June 1, 2023 – BWJP, the national non-profit organization dedicated to addressing systemic responses to gender-based violence, today announced they have been awarded a grant…

BWJP Welcomes Lumarie Orozco, MA, as the new Project Director, Firearms Technical Assistance Project  

Lumarie Orozco will serve as the Project Director, Firearms Technical Assistance Project.   BWJP has hired Lumarie Orozco, MA to be the Director of FTAP. Ms. Orozco comes to BWJP from Esperanza United where she served as the Director of Special Initiatives and provided strategic culturally responsive training and technical assistance…

BWJP Welcomes Rachel Graber, MA, MSW, as the new Deputy Project Director for the Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP) 

Rachel Graber will serve as the Deputy Project Director for the Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP).   She comes to BWJP from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), where she served as the Director of Public Policy and then the Director of Public Affairs after NCADV’s merger with the National…

Behind Closed Doors: Unmasking the Lethal Link Between Firearms and Domestic Violence

Taking Back Control Podcast | Season 3 | Episode 1 Did you know the risk of homicide increases by at least 500% when a firearm is present? This means that a woman is five times more likely to be killed by her partner when the partner has access to a…

Supporting Mothers Who are Survivors in the Workplace     

By Patrice Tillery  According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management, 65% of HR professionals reported that domestic violence had affected their workplace, with issues including decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and increased healthcare costs. The same study found that only 13% of HR professionals felt very confident…

Women’s History Month 2023- Patrice Tillery  

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. Today, we are highlighting Rising Star, Patrice Tillery. Patrice Tillery graduated from the University of Maryland,…

Press Release: BWJP Joins Domestic Violence and Gun Violence Prevention Organizations to File Amicus Brief to Overturn USA v. Rahimi.     

Washington, D.C., April 20, 2023 – Today, a coalition of gun violence prevention and domestic violence prevention groups filed an amicus brief before the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) petition for certiorari in USA v. Rahimi. The brief urges the Court to take up the case in…

BWJP Welcomes Meghan Wilhelm, as the new Temporary Digital Media Coordinator

Meghan worked for the Pee Dee Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence as their Volunteer Coordinator for the domestic violence shelter after graduating college in 2021. She used her Bachelor's degree in communications to strengthen and form new connections with businesses to create services for shelter residents. Shelter life is…

Women’s History Month 2023- Lupe Serrano

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. Today, we are highlighting Mother of the Movement, Lupe Serrano as shared by our Chief Executive Officer, Amy J. Sánchez.______________________________________________________________ I met Lupe in 1997 when we were members of a Board of…

Women’s History Month 2023- Maritza Valdez Fagin, M.P.A

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. Today, we are highlighting Rising Star, Maritza Valdez Fagin, M.P.A. by  ______________________________________________________________ Maritza Valdez Fagin, M.P.A., is currently the Director of Operations at BWJP. She specializes in organizational development, capacity building, nonprofit management, sustainability, and…

Women’s History Month 2023- Dr. Shamita Das Dasgupta

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. Today, we are highlighting Mother of the Movement, Dr. Shamita Das Dasgupta. by Sujata Warrier ______________________________________________________________ I will always remember my first meeting with Shamita in 1988 when I moved to New Jersey and…

BWJP Congratulates the New Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services

BWJP is excited to congratulate the Biden Administration for the creation the Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services (OFVPS), under the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Formerly known as Family Violence Prevention & Service’s Act Program (FVPSA), the elevation…

Women’s History Month 2023- Ellen Pence  

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. Today, we are highlighting Mother of the Movement, Ellen Pence, as shared by our Director of Policy and Practice, National Center on Legal Approaches to Prevent Family Violence, Kristine Lizdas Esq. ______________________________________________________________ Most of…

Women’s History Month 2023- Tracy Shoberg  

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. By Patrice Tillery This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. Today, we are highlighting Rising Star, Tracy Shoberg. Tracy Shoberg is the Deputy…

Women’s History Month 2023- Cynthia Mabry-King  

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. By Christina M. Jones, Esq. Black people make up 5% of lawyers in America. Black women attorneys occupy an even smaller slice of that 5%. As a young Black woman entering law school,…

NCPOFFC: Tools and Resources for Attorneys and Advocates  

By the National Center on Protection Orders and Full Faith & Credit The process of obtaining a protection order and getting it enforced across jurisdictional lines can be daunting and complicated for a survivor. It is imperative that advocates and attorneys understand the laws that apply to these processes so…

Women’s History Month – Kesimy Medina  

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we are honoring Rising Stars and Mothers of the Movement. Today, we are highlighting our first Rising Star, Kesimy Medina. By Patrice Tillery Kesimy Medina graduated magna cum laude from Methodist University, also receiving the Rebecca Woodward Wendelken History Writing Award and David…

BWJP Welcomes Jennifer Waindle as the Project Director of the National Center on Improving Community Supervision Responses    

BWJP Welcomes Jennifer Waindle as the Project Director of the National Center on Improving Community Supervision Responses  Jennifer Waindle joins BWJP with extensive experience in domestic violence prevention and law enforcement. She has spent more than 17 years in various leadership roles in DeKalb County in metro Atlanta, helping protect victims and…

BWJP Reacts to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit’s Disappointing Ruling Undermining Federal Firearms Prohibitions for Persons Who Have Committed Acts of Domestic Violence     

ST. PAUL, MN – A federal court has ruled disarming people who have domestic violence protection orders against them does not “fit within our Nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation.” The court further wrote that the ban under 18 USC § 922(g)(8) is an “outlier that our ancestors would never…

Have We Been Desensitized to Stalking?     

By Bailey Skeeter and Patrice Tillery    Some people would rather be in jail than alone. Relationships can be emotional, meaningful, and complicated, but should never be dangerous. One way a relationship can become dangerous is through the crime of stalking.    The National Domestic Violence Hotline defines stalking as a pattern…

Human Trafficking isn’t just a Global Issue. It’s a Local Issue too.     

By Maria Jose Fletcher, Esq.  There are cruel people who take advantage of our most vulnerable for profit, pleasure, or both. We often think it is happening in areas that are foreign to us. But often, it happens right in our own communities.    Trafficking in human beings is rooted in…

BWJP Welcomes Julia Weber Esq. MSW, as the Director of the National Center on Gun Violence in Relationships and the Project Director of the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms.   

BWJP Welcomes Julia Weber Esq. MSW, as the Director of the National Center on Gun Violence in Relationships and the Project Director of the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms.  Julia obtained her combined degrees in law and social work from Washington University in St. Louis and has…

A Q&A with External Relation Intern Bailey

Bailey Skeeter College: Loyola University Maryland  Graduation Year: May 2023  Major: Psychology, Minor African American Studies What sparks your interest in gender- based violence?   From a psychological perspective, gender-based violence can have serious and lost-lasting effects on the mental health and well-being of survivors as rates of gender-based violence disproportionately…

Why is it so hard to believe Black women?

Published by: Patrice Tillery, and Christina M. Jones, Esq. “Why did she lie?” “But she had sex with him.” “Her story has changed several times.”  As a victim of intimate partner violence, there are so many things that go through your mind while you are processing the situation. Like any…

BWJP Welcomes Two New Staff Members – Patrice Tillery and Kesimy Medina

Patrice Tillery is BWJP’s new Development Coordinator.   Patrice Tillery is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park with over 15 years of experience in sales. She is excited to use her skill set to develop relationships that further the BWJP mission. She will assist the development team and…

BWJP Welcomes Kenneth Noyes, JD, Director of the Gender-Based Violence Initiative

Ken represented survivors in family courts and in the DC child welfare system for many years, which inspired his pursuit for social justice. Ken has considerable non-profit leadership experience having served as the Executive Director of the DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence and as Chief Operations Officer of the National…

BWJP Welcomes Maria Jose Fletcher,JD, Director of Our Newest Center, the National Center on Systems Change and Advocacy.

María José Fletcher, JD, is the Director of BWJP’s newest center, the National Center on Systems Change and Advocacy. María José, a migrant from Uruguay and then Peru, understands the struggles associated with leaving one’s home in search of safety. Witnessing firsthand the violence perpetrated against women and girls compelled…

BWJP Welcomes Rebecca Henry, JD, MA, our new Chief Program Officer

Rebecca has been working to mitigate gender-based violence for 25 years, representing female inmates harassed by guards, litigating complex custody cases with survivors, developing training and technical assistance for victims’ attorneys, and providing expert consultation to legislative staff. Most recently, Rebecca was Chief Counsel to the Commission on Domestic and…

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH 2022

OCTOBER 1 TAKING BACK CONTROL PODCAST EPISODE RELEASE: AN OPEN SECRET OCTOBER 11 CRITICAL ISSUES FORUM: COURT WATCH MONTGOMERY OCTOBER 12 TAKING BACK CONTROL PODCAST EPISODE RELEASE: COERCIVE CONTROL WITH WASHINGTON STATE COALITION OCTOBER 12 WEBINAR: SAFETY FOR NATIVE WOMEN POST CASTRO-HUERTA OCTOBER 17 TAKING BACK CONTROL PODCAST EPISODE RELEASE:…

We’re Hiring: Executive Assistant

BWJP is the national non-profit leader at the intersection of gender-based violence and the law. BWJP is a dynamic collection of national policy and practice centers which provide support, education, best practice, and innovation to advocates, systems professionals, community leaders, and policy experts. BWJP advocates for survivors of gender-based violence…

When Immigration Becomes a Tool in Intimate Partner Violence

Anonymous Many people are unaware that immigration abuse can be a tool of gender-based violence. Imagine being 21, prohibited from legally working, pregnant, and about to be deported. What other choice did I have but to marry him? I emigrated to the United States from the United Kingdom (a predominately…

Reporting Domestic Offenses to Background Check Systems: Does it Really Matter?

Published by: David Keck Background check systems, such as the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), were created to work like a net; they are designed to catch and deter anyone not allowed to possess a gun before a purchase is completed. A net with a gaping hole in it, however,…

Reproductive Freedom is Survivor Freedom

As a gender-based violence organization, BWJP will always support the autonomy of survivors over their own lives and bodies. The Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization to overturn the longstanding rights to privacy and abortion in Roe v. Wade takes away that decision-making for women. This…

You Thought the Boyfriend Loophole Was Closing… Not Exactly

Over the last 25 years, domestic violence advocates, organizations, and survivors have been pushing Congress to close the “boyfriend loophole.” Research has shown that approximately one-half of all intimate partner homicides involving firearms include relationships that are not covered under the current definition of domestic violence.1 BWJP applauds Congress for…

Letter from the NRCDVF Director on Gun Violence Solutions

Published by: David W. Keck, Project Director Gun violence in America is a public health epidemic. Gun deaths have eclipsed car accidents as the leading cause of death for Americans aged 19 and under*. These tragic deaths are predictable therefore they are preventable.  Laws already exist that prohibit some individuals…

BWJP Advocates for Solutions to the Gun Violence Epidemic

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  May 25, 2022  MEDIA CONTACT: Victoria Taylor, Communications Manager, BWJP | communications@bwjp.org   ST. PAUL, MN -- The slaughter of innocent lives with a firearm happened again yesterday in the community of Uvalde, Texas. Just as it happened last week in Buffalo, New York, and Southern California, and as they have…

Statement from NRCDVF on Presidential Nominee for Director of ATF

To: Steve Dettelbach, Presidential Nominee for Director of ATF             Mr. Dettelbach, Congratulations on your nomination for Director of ATF. BWJP and the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms, applaud your recommendation and are optimistic about your confirmation.             We believe that now is the time for a closer look…

Reaffirming My Transgender Child’s Identity is Not Child Abuse

anonymous Emotional abuse is just as real for children as it is for adults. As April is Child Abuse Prevention month, we must take this time to ensure that parents, caregivers, and other adults in children's lives, are acutely aware of the emotional dangers of denying children of their whole…

Three Ways We Can Transform the Family Court System to Provide Better Outcomes for Survivors and Their Children – An Op-Ed

By Ana M. Martinez-Mullen, Esq. and Tracy Shoberg, J.D., April 2022 Family Court systems are in dire need of reform. It gives parents who are survivors of intimate partner violence conflicting messages that can cost them custody of their children. If you are a parent with shared custody who takes…

BWJP Supports the Biden Administration’s Newly Released Firearm Regulations on “Ghost Guns”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: BWJP Supports the Biden Administration’s Newly Released Firearm Regulations on “Ghost Guns” April 12, 2022 ST. PAUL, M.N. – BWJP applauds President Biden’s newly released regulations to prevent the proliferation of untraceable firearms known as ghost guns. Ghost guns are assembled weapons from firearm kits purchased online or in stores. These…

Taking Back Control S2 E3

Season 2 Episode 2: Justice for Survivors Charged With Crimes | Release Date 3/25/2022 The criminalization of survivors of gender-based violence is not new. Survivors end up inside the criminal justice system in so many ways. We talk to Cindene Pezzell, Legal Director of the National Clearinghouse for the Defense…

BWJP Announces Staff Promotions

March 25th, 2022 BWJP is excited to announce two internal leadership promotions. Monica Player, JD, will serve as the next Director of the National Center on Protection Orders and Full Faith & Credit (“NCPOFFC”), and Christina Jones JD, will serve as the new Chief Executive of External Relations. “I am…

Protecting Physical Safety and Honoring Bisexual Health Month

By Victoria Taylor | March 24th 2022 My bisexuality was to be hidden, a forbidden topic of conversation, unless it was wanted to use in the context of his fantasies. Sometimes my sexual identity was “hot”, and I was badgered for threesomes with other women, the next I was a…

BWJP Announces the Departure of Millicent Shaw Phipps

March 23rd, 2022 BWJP announces that Millicent Shaw Phipps is stepping down as the Director of the National Center on Protection Orders and Full Faith & Credit after a sixteen-year tenure at BWJP and an eighteen-year tenure as NCPOFFC Director. Under her leadership, NCPOFFC grew exponentially, and provided national leadership…

Attorney Advisor Position Announcement

March 18th, 2022 With a new Executive Director at the helm, BWJP is entering an exciting phase in its work. Building on existing relationships and past accomplishments, BWJP will continue to broker meaningful community engagement to ensure systems accountability. Using an intersectional lens and analysis, our work will uplift the…

Family and Youth Services Bureau, Reviewer Recruitment Campaign

March 14th, 2022 The Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB) is gearing up for its FY22 Discretionary Grant Reviews and has incorporated a Reviewer Recruitment campaign designed to allow for widest dissemination of efforts and to secure the most qualified reviewers to support its program grant reviews. Please find the…

VAWA Reauthorized in the Senate!

March 11th, 2022 BWJP is thrilled that the Violence Against Women Act (“VAWA”) has been passed by both chambers of the United States Congress. This pivotal piece of legislation is vital in protecting all people against gender-based violence. “VAWA  is critical legislation for the country,” says Amy J. Sánchez, BWJP’s Chief Executive…

International Women’s Day and Sexual Assault as a Tactic in War-Torn Areas

By Sujata Warrier Ph.D. and Christina M. Jones, J.D. | March 8th, 2022 As the national resource center on civil and criminal justice response to gender-based violence, we strongly condemn all forms of sexual violence and on International Women’s Day we want to call out sexual violence that is used in…

Black Women Deserve the Right to be Free from Violence

By Alicia Nichols, LSW and Christina Jones, Esq. “No man will ever hit me. You just can’t hit a Black woman. We won’t stand for that.” As a twenty-something domestic violence advocate, these words stunned me. I was facilitating an exercise for a group of professionals to shed light on…

Taking Back Control S2 E2 Show Notes

Season 2 Episode 2: Teens Deserve Protection Too | Release Date 2/25/2022 Teens and young people deserve to be safe from abusive behaviors. Did you know that most jurisdictions have a separate process for teens to receive protection orders? In this episode, we talk with BWJP Attorney-Advisor Sarah Henry about…

Taking Back Control S2 E1

Season 2 Episode 1: Using Our Platform to Inform Policy | Release Date 2/25/2022 The best national policy is informed by the real-world experiences of the people who policies affect. BWJP recently responded to the Biden Administration's National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality. In this episode, we talk to…

Don’t Gaslight Me. Emotional Abuse is Abuse.

Christina M. Jones J.D. | February 16, 2022 Maybe you could say the first public outburst of love was endearing. The second may have been embarrassing for most, but they are such a public couple. After moving in across the street and berating her parenting across social media platforms, it…

Building a Community of Practice: Increasing Survivor Safety from Firearms

January 18, 2022 BWJP’s National Resource Center on Domestic Violence and Firearms is excited to announce a new project made possible with support from The Joyce Foundation.  Over the next twelve months the project, Building a Community of Practice: Increasing Survivor Safety from Firearms, will form a community of practice…

SOMETHING NEW IS COMING IN SPRING 2022!

January 6, 2022 BWJP has been providing resources, trainings, programmatic innovations and much more for 30 years now. While we have been very successful at this (we know because you are reading this and using the resources!), it’s time to talk about our outdated brand and cumbersome website. It is…

BWJP Director, Kristine, Appointed to CEJ Minnesota Judicial Branch

January 4, 2022 BWJP’s Director of Policy Initiatives, Kristine Lizdas, has been appointed to the Committee for Equality and Justice (CEJ) of the Minnesota Judicial Branch. The CEJ is was established to serve as an advisory committee to Minnesota’s Judicial Council. The mission of the CEJ is to work collaboratively across…

BWJP Applauds Bipartisan Agreement addressing Military Sexual Assault in the NDAA

December 7, 2021 BWJP is proud to support the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) on Sexual Assault in the Military, along with the visionary leadership of President Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. These changes will ensure that any service member…

Taking Back Control S1 E8 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 8: The Loyalty Trap: Black Women, Domestic Violence and Firearms | Release Date 11/22/2021 In the 1980s, Dr. Beth Ritchie coined the concept of "The Trap of Loyalty." The term refers to the immense pressure that black women feel to protect black men even at the expense…

BWJP Featured on ‘The Problem with Jon Stewart’ Show

BWJP is excited to be a part of Jon Stewart's new show 'The Problem with Jon Stewart'.   In this new series only available on Apple TV, Jon Stewart brings together people impacted by different parts of a problem to discuss how we produce change. The BWJP Firearms team engaged…

National Custody Strategy Network – A Statement on IPV and Co-Occurring Child Abuse

A STATEMENT SUPPORTING ASSESSMENT OF THE NATURE, CONTEXT AND EFFECTS OF ABUSE IN FAMILY COURT SETTING The National Custody Strategy Network (NCSN) is a professional network of multidisciplinary practitioners and advocates for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) from state and national organizations striving to achieve better, safer outcomes for…

Taking Back Control S1 E7 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 7: The Lived Perspectives of Latina Survivors | Release Date 10/29/2021 This episode is recorded in Spanish // Este episodio está grabado en español Rosario de la Torre es Co-directora de apoyo a las familias y participación comunitaria de la organización Esperanza United. Rosario a dedicado su…

Taking Back Control S1 E6 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 6: How we can better serve victim-survivors who identify as LGBTQ+ | Release Date 10/29/2021 The most predictive indicator of domestic violence is gender. In most cases, a woman is being abused by a man. Most systems operate with the assumption that a woman is being abused…

Taking Back Control S1 E5 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 5: Reclaiming Bodily Sovereignty | Release Date 10/15/2021 Centering the stories of Native women and girls are essential because they are disproportionately impacted by intimate partner violence. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Corrine Sanchez of Tewa Women United to dig deeper in what it means…

Taking Back Control S1 E3 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 3: Hearing the Authentic Voices of Black Women | Release Date 10/8/2021 Advocates across the country have been doing some amazing work in culturally specific communities. Antonia Drew Vann, Director and Founder of the The Asha Project, has been working with black survivors of domestic violence for…

Taking Back Control S1 E4 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 4: Centering the Stories of the Hmong Community | Release Date 10/8/2021 In this episode, we talk to Kabzuag Vaj, Co-Executive Director of Freedom, Inc. Kabzuag is a longtime advocate and proud Hmong-American who has spent her life working to build collective power and social change. We…

Taking Back Control S1 E2 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 2: The Stories That we Tell | Release Date 10/1/2021 In this episode, we talk with BWJP Chief Strategy Officer Dr. Sujata Warrier about the history of the advocacy movement and the importance of using your privilege to lift up others. Resources mentioned in this episode: Reach…

Taking Back Control S1 E1 Show Notes

Season 1 Episode 1: Organizational Shifts and How to Bring your Whole Self to Work | Release Date 10/1/2021 Welcome to episode one of BWJP's Taking Back Control. In this inaugural episode, we talk to BWJP CEO Amy Sanchez about the importance of bringing your full self to the table…

Honoring Loretta M. Frederick and her Retirement from BWJP

BWJP expresses their deep gratitude to Ms. Frederick for her 26 years of work with BWJP to improve the legal system’s response to domestic violence Minneapolis, MN Release: September 1, 2021 For Immediate Release  BWJP today recognizes Loretta M. Frederick, JD, the organization’s Senior Legal and Policy Advisor, in her…

Hiring: Instructional Designer

About Us: The Battered Women's Justice Project (BWJP) is a national legal resource & center on civil and criminal justice system responses to gender-based violence (GBV). BWJP provides expert training, policy analyses, and consultation to various constituencies including advocates, GBV programs and coalitions, communities, national leaders, and elected officials. With…

FY2020 Annual Report Now Available

Read about our challenges and successes, and find your name in our list of donors in our most recent Annual Report. Download 2020 Annual Report

A SAFeR Approach for This Moment

In our grant report, we emphasize the importance of BWJP's SAFeR approach to our current moment. As we face increasing incidence of domestic violence, an uprising against police brutality, and widespread distrust of the legal systems that we've conventionally used to respond to domestic violence, our SAFeR approach can lead to better outcomes…

Online Dispute Resolution and Domestic Violence

Online processes can increase access to dispute resolution for some domestic violence survivors. They can be out of reach for others who don’t have access to private space, reliable internet, uncompromised electronic devices, or basic technical know-how. Online dispute resolution can also expand opportunities for abuse. Mediators can’t afford to…

BWJP Board Announces New Executive Director

The Board of the Battered Women’s Justice Project (BWJP) is delighted to announce the appointment of Amy Sanchez as its Executive Director effective September 28, 2020. A thorough national search has resulted in a stellar candidate and we now look forward to supporting her leadership! For the past five years,…

On the Murder of George Floyd

The brutal murder of George Floyd was senseless and horrific, shocking the conscience of anyone who views the video. Our hearts are with his loved ones and with all people who know and fear brutality from those who take an oath to serve and protect. To our country’s great shame,…

COVID-19, Coercive Control, and Shared Parenting

In situations involving a coercive controlling parent, shared legal custody can be a pathway for an abusive parent to exercise power over the victim-parent and child. During this pandemic, decisions about a child's education, healthcare, and at-home life are even more critical, and the opportunities for abusers to manipulate and…

Centering Intimate Partner Violence: Miami-Dade’s COVID-19 Response

In the first week of April, BWJP staff sat in on a Zoom call with over 75 people in Miami-Dade County working together in responding to intimate partner violence during the current public health crisis. Professionals on the call included judges, court staff, domestic violence shelter advocates, people working with…

BWJP Seeks New Executive Director

The Battered Women’s Justice Project seeks a strong, creative, seasoned leader who is oriented toward social justice, committed to ending gender-based violence, and has deep respect for advocacy and diversity, equity and inclusion practices. Find the full position description and application instructions in this document.

Coercive Control during COVID-19: New Tactics

As COVID-19 spreads across the globe and into our homes, domestic abusers are finding new ways to exercise coercive control. This short video describes how abusers can exploit social distancing and shelter-in-place policies to achieve power and control over household members. You can download a PDF file of the COVID-19…

Intimate Partner Violence in a COVID-19 World

As we all strive to minimize the loss of life caused by COVID-19's spread around the globe, those of us in the intimate partner violence sphere are preparing for an increase in domestic violence, as well as an increase in the lethality of domestic violence amid the spike in firearm…

Introduction to the SAFeR Approach

Every domestic violence case is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach often does victims/survivors a disservice. In the fourth and final video in our series, Loretta Frederick, Senior Legal Policy Advisor at BWJP, introduces the SAFeR Approach, a tool for identifying, assessing, and responding to domestic violence in child custody cases. BWJP…

Trauma-Informed Advocacy, Part II: Restoring Trust

The third video in our series--the second focusing on trauma-informed advocacy--is now available! Listen to Sarah Super, Training & Curriculum Specialist with BWJP, explain the importance of helping victims/survivors restore their trust in her second video.

Trauma-Informed Advocacy, Part I: Rebuilding Agency

The second video in our series, focusing on trauma-informed advocacy, is now live. Listen to Sarah Super, Training & Curriculum Specialist with BWJP, explain the basics of how to support survivors/victims to rebuild their own agency in the first of two videos on the topic.

Domestic Violence Is Not “High Conflict”

The phrase “high conflict” pervades the family court system. Interactions between parties are “high conflict;” separations may be “high conflict;” even parenting practices are labeled “high conflict.” Given how often the term is used in the family court system, it is surprising how little consensus there is about the term…

Now Live: Intersection of Firearms and Domestic Violence

Over the last four months, BWJP has worked to produce four videos on different topics in domestic violence. We're proud to announce that the first of those videos, on the overlap of domestic violence and firearm use, is available for viewing. Watch it below now!

Improving Criminal Justice Responses Grantee Orientation Materials

The Gun Violence Restraining Order

Published by: Kelly Roskam and Vicka Chaplin In March of 2013, shortly after the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School, experts in the areas of mental health, public health, law enforcement, law and gun violence prevention met for a two-day conference to discuss research and identify areas of consensus regarding…

Veterans & Domestic Violence: Improving Safety, Accountability and Intervention Application Form

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Addressing Language Access in Police Departments: Salem, MA, Police Department Models Compliance

Salem, Massachusetts, with a population of approximately 43,132, has a police force of 90 officers and uses a community policing model. Like many jurisdictions across the country, the population of Salem includes many residents with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Officer Mike LaRiviere Officer Michael LaRiviere joined the Salem Police Department…

Firearms and Ammunition Prohibitions in the Military  

Several studies estimate the rate of intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration in the military from 13.3 percent to 47 percent among male active duty servicemembers, and 13.5 percent to 42 percent among male veterans. While the intersection of IPV and the military is not a new issue, there has been…

Reporting Domestic Offenses to Background Check Systems: Does it Really Matter?

Background check systems, such as the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), were created to work like a net; they are designed to catch and deter anyone not allowed to possess a gun before a purchase is completed. A net with a gaping hole in it, however, is not…

Preventing Gun Violence Against Native Women

Six in ten Native women will be physically assaulted at some point in their lives and, on some reservations, the murder rate for Native women is ten times the national average. For Native women, the lethal threat a gun poses in the home of a domestic violence perpetrator is especially severe…

The Texas Church Massacre and Preventing Domestic Violence-Related Gun Violence

On Sunday, November 5, a man shot and killed 26 people and injured at least 20 others at a church service in Sutherland Springs, TX. Our hearts ache for the families and everyone affected by this tragedy. According to the Associated Press, the gunman had a history of domestic violence. Recognizing the danger…

BWJP Welcomes Equal Justice Works Fellow

As an Equal Justice Works Fellow, Katie will work with BWJP to improve outcomes for battered women and their children by developing tools and trainings for Child Protection Services workers to better address cases involving domestic violence. With the assistance of individuals at BWJP, Katie developed a project aimed at…

Monitoring to Achieve Accountability: Revisiting the St. Paul Blueprint for Safety Seven Years Later

It takes a strong concerted effort to create the will to examine your own system, evaluate current problems, and establish new policies and procedures. One such effort is the St. Paul Blueprint for Safety, built on 30 years of experience and research on coordinated community responses (CCRs). In the simplest…

Bureau of Justice Statistics Releases Police Response to Domestic Violence, 2006 to 2015

The  Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) recently released Police Response to Domestic Violence, 2006-2015. This report presents 2006-2015 data on: Nonfatal domestic violence victimizations reported to police Police response to these victimizations Prevalence of related arrests or charges Criminal complaints signed against the offender. The BJS collected data from the National…

Domestic Violence Mentor Court Open House

The Center for Court Innovation and the Winnebago County Domestic Violence Coordinated Courts are holding an Open House at the courthouse in Rockford, Illinois (located 1.5 hours outside of Chicago) on May 11-12, 2017. The day and a 1/2 Open House will include:  panels and workshops with local Winnebago County…

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Detains Domestic Violence Victim

The El Paso Times reports that a victim who went to family court to seek an order for protection against her abuser was detained by ICE officials after the hearing.  The alleged abuser is suspected of making the tip to ICE agents. Read more... From the El Paso Times.

Remembering Amy Judy

"Amy was a tireless advocate for survivors, people with disabilities, and humankind, in general," says CVS director Nancy Smith. "She brought a gentle fierceness to her work and through her compassion, wisdom, and relentless pursuit of justice she moved even the most stubborn among us. We cannot imagine being able…

IACP Releases New Police Training Video

The crime of domestic violence is complex and law enforcement officers often feel frustrated and discouraged when responding. Officers provide as much support to victims as possible, but when equipped with a better understanding of the nuances and dynamics of this intimate partner crime, they can more effectively address victims’…

Racial & Economic Equity for Domestic & Sexual Violence Survivors

Wednesday, January 25th, 2017 1:00 - 2:30pm EST Description: This webinar will introduce CSAJ’s Legal Impact for Racial & Economic Equity for Survivors Project (REEP), a national TA Project that seeks to address the barriers of implicit and explicit discrimination, institutional bias, and structural oppression to enhance access to economic…

Using Jurisdictional Statutes to Assist Domestic Violence Survivors: Beyond the Basics

When: February 16, 2017, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. EST  What: This training will build upon the foundation established by the LRC’s previous training programs, which provided participants with an overview of the various federal and state laws that govern interstate custody cases. The training is appropriate for attorneys and advocates who…

Meet BWJP’s National Domestic Violence and Firearms Resource Center Director

Over the course of his career, David has exhibited a strong commitment to legal and policy work on behalf of survivors of domestic violence, and particularly the impact of firearms on the safety of survivors, their families and their communities. As a Court Commissioner, David was instrumental in developing an…

Minnesota Lawyer Honors Loretta Frederick

Awards for Outstanding Service to the Profession are presented annually by Minnesota Lawyer newspaper to recognize attorneys for a career’s worth of service and sacrifice on behalf of the justice system in Minnesota. We are proud to announce that BWJP staff member, Loretta Frederick, is a 2016 recipient of this…

Domestic Abuse Killings Climb as Murders Drop, Frustrating New York Officials

The persistence of such killings, now a larger share of the shrinking homicide total, has frustrated police officers, prosecutors, social service providers and policy makers struggling to prevent intimate tensions that play out behind closed doors from turning deadly. And while the city already has a host of programs aimed…

BWJP Project and Staff Featured in Mitchell Hamline Publication

The Dispute Resolution Institute (DRI) featured the work of BWJP’s National Child Custody Project as an innovative approach to mediation and domestic violence. According to the DRI, the model has been “very positively received by mediators, domestic violence advocates, lawyers and judges.” Congratulations to Gabrielle, Loretta and Nancy!

DV Evidence Online Resource Center Launched

The DV Evidence Project online resource center houses a comprehensive evidence review of key services to adult victims, profiles of innovative programs and practices in the field and evaluation tools to assist advocates and allied organizations in understanding the different types of evidence that can inform our work. It also links…

National Baseline Assessment of Shelters on Serving Transgender Survivors

FORGE is seeking responses from a wide range of agencies who provide emergency shelter and temporary or transitional housing to individuals/families who have experienced domestic violence, intimate partner violence, partner abuse, or other intimate crimes. The purpose of this assessment is to examine how shelters are currently serving transgender and…

Department of Justice Allocates $38 Million to Untested Rape Kits

“Testing rape kits sends a fundamental and crucial message to victims of sexual violence,” said Maile M. Zambuto, CEO of sexual-assault advocacy organization Joyful Heart Foundation. “You matter. What happened to you matters.” The average cost of testing a rape kit is between $1,000 and $1,500. They contain DNA swabs…

New Website Promotes Enforcement of Firearms Restrictions in Domestic Violence Cases

The website Safer Families, Safer Communities (www.preventdvgunviolence.org), will be managed by BWJP’s new National Domestic Violence and Firearms Resource Center, funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women (OVW).  The website will promote the efforts of communities around the country to prevent domestic violence-related homicides through comprehensive implementation and…

BWJP Seeks Project Director, National Center on Domestic Violence & Firearms

Organization The Battered Women's Justice Project (BWJP) is a national resource center on the civil and criminal justice system response to intimate partner violence (IPV). Position & Location Project Director, full-time, supervised by the Legal Policy Director. Location: Minneapolis preferred. Responsibilities Management Develop and manage a national effort to improve…

Joyful Heart Foundation Applauds $38 Million Awarded to Rape Kit Reform

“We are grateful to President Obama, Vice President Biden, and the congressional leaders who continue to make ending the rape kit backlog a priority. Focusing a national effort on comprehensive reform demonstrates a commitment to survivors that we will do everything possible to bring healing and justice,” said Maile M.…

He’s going to kill me’: Police indifference to a woman stalked

On a warm Saturday night in July, about 50 graduates of Chisholm High’s class of ’96 gathered at Valentini’s Supper Club. Under the glow of fairy lights, surrounded by balloons and the sweeping fresco of some Italian villa, they mingled with beers and reminisced about high school reputations. Some had…

National Census of Victim Service Providers

RAND, the National Center for Victims of Crime, and survey firm NORC are conducting the NCVSP, a census of victim service providers that is the first phase of a new BJS victim services research program. We need the help of every victim service program to participate in this census, which…

More than 1,600 Women Murdered by Men in One Year, New Study Finds

More than 1,600 women were murdered by men in 2014 and the most common weapon used was a gun, according to the new Violence Policy Center (VPC) study When Men Murder Women: An Analysis of 2014 Homicide Data. This annual VPC report is being released in advance of Domestic Violence…

HUD Finalizes Rule to Ensure Shelters Protect Homeless Trans People

This follows similar Department of Justice guidance for domestic violence shelters and other programs funded by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Over 300 national, state, and local organization advocating for victims of sexual and domestic violence have vocally supported ensuring access to facilities such as homeless shelters that are…

HUD Announces New Protections for Victims

HUD issued its Nuisance Guidance as the country marks the 22nd anniversary of the Violence Against Women's Act (VAWA). Through the VAWA 2013 reauthorization, protections have been expanded to nearly all HUD programs. Previously, only residents of public housing and Section 8 tenant-based and project-based programs were covered. HUD's final Harassment…

2016 Implementation Sites Project Now Accepting Applications

The NCJFCJ Implementation Sites Project is a three-year project to provide child abuse and neglect courts with training, technical assistance, and support to guide program improvement, sustainability, and performance. As part of their involvement in this project, Implementation Sites are expected to implement meaningful change, evaluate progress, as well as…

FL Judge Reprimanded for Poor Treatment of DV Victim

Earlier this week, Seminole County Judge Jerri Collins found herself on the opposite side of the bench as she received her own harsh scolding from Florida’s chief justice. Collins stood through nearly six minutes of public reprimand after the Florida Supreme Court found that she violated the state’s code of…

Justice Department Releases Training Video for Law Enforcement

The training uses three non-emergency and non-crisis situations to discuss ways for police officers to effectively and politely interact with transgender individuals.  In promoting best practices, the video defines three important terms: assigned sex, sexual orientation and gender identity.   As the training outlines, understanding the terminology and the major…

Justice Department report: Baltimore police routinely violated civil rights

Baltimore police routinely violated the constitutional rights of residents by conducting unlawful stops and using excessive force, according to the findings of a long-anticipated Justice Department probe to be released Wednesday. The practices overwhelmingly affected the city's black residents in low-income neighborhoods, according to the 163-page report. In often scathing…

LGBT People of Color Face Rampant Discrimination, Bias and Abuse in the Criminal Justice System

The events of the summer of 2016 have spurred renewed dialogue and protests about the unequal treatment of people of color, particularly black and Latino people, in the U.S. criminal justice system. Now, a new report explores how lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people of color are treated in…

FCC Wants to Fine Men for Faking Caller ID to Harass Ex-Wife

Spoofing — the practice of sending out fake caller ID information to disguise the caller’s real identity — is legal, so long as it’s not done to deceive or harm anyone. Reporters, victims of domestic abuse, human rights organizations, all legally use spoofing to protect their locations or sources.  This…

Engaging Men of Faith in Domestic Violence Prevention

Conference Topics Include: The Role of Law Enforcement and Clergy The Experience of Young Women and Girls The Role of Men's Ministries and Women's Ministries Addressing Issues Within the Church Regarding the LGBTQ and GNC Communities Faith Leaders: Developing and Implementing Prevention Policies  Working With Young Men and Boys  REGISTER HERE 

New DOD Investigative Unit Focuses on Sexual Assault Related Reprisals

A new unit in the Defense Department’s Office of Inspector General will focus solely on complaints of retaliation against military members who report sexual assault, highlighting a commitment to end the double victimization of victims. In addition, this newly created team of seven investigators and a supervisor will directly handle…

New Resource: Tech Safety App

This app takes advantage of the NNEDV Safety Net project’s more than 15 years of working on the intersection of technology abuse and violence against women, and who have provided expert advice, trainings, and consultation on this issue to thousands of survivors of abuse, victim service providers, and technology companies.…

DOD Helpline Offers Support to Sexual Assault Victims

At first glance, the wall of multicolored adhesive notes could be routine reminders or phone messages common in a busy work center in a high-rise office space. But this is no typical workplace, and the notes are anything but ordinary. Scrawled on the notes are simple yet profound messages of…

Creating a Process of Change for Christian Men Who Batter

Creating a Process of Change for Christian Men Who Batter Training - Changing  Men, Changing Lives September 26-28, 2016/Duluth, MN The topics covered will include: Culturally specific process for working with Christian men Understanding the theories that guide Creating a Process of Change for Men Who Batter Facilitating structured, interactive…

When Domestic Violence Victims Face Eviction for Calling the Cops

Imagine you’re a woman trying to extricate yourself from an abusive relationship, and your ex won’t leave you alone. The cops have been called to your apartment on more than one occasion. One night, he breaks into your apartment, smashing a window and causing some property damage. Another night, an…

New Rule Allows VOCA Funds to Support Services for Victims in Detention

The final rule goes into effect thirty days after publication, and sets forth the parameters for the use of funds under OVC’s Victim Assistance Program. OVC consulted extensively with the crime victim services field in developing the rule, and published a notice of proposed rulemaking (78 FR 52877) on August…

Tribal Access to Justice Website Launched

Developed by the Center for Court Innovation's Tribal Justice Exchange, a new website seeks to provide ideas and inspiration to reformers looking to address common challenges like substance use, domestic violence, gang involvement, and juvenile delinquency. Tribal Access to Justice Innovation contains profiles of dozens of tribal justice programs, along with videos, podcasts,…

National Child Custody Project Releases Practice Aids

BWJP is pleased to announce the release of a new set of child custody-related practice worksheets for advocates, attorneys, and other family court professionals. The new worksheets augment the Practice Guides for Domestic Violence-Informed Decision-Making that BWJP developed in connection with the OVW-sponsored National Child Custody Project. The worksheets offer…

Newest Minnesota Supreme Court justice: Anne McKeig

Dayton will appoint District Judge Anne McKeig to fill the Supreme Court vacancy caused by Justice Christopher Dietzen’s upcoming retirement. McKeig was appointed to the court by Pawlenty in 2008 after more than 15 years as a Hennepin County prosecutor. She worked for the Child Protection Division and was a…

Supreme Court Affirms That Even ‘Reckless’ Domestic Abusers Should Lose Gun Rights

The Supreme Court ruled in a decision announced Monday that a domestic violence assault committed “recklessly” qualifies as a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and therefore triggers the federal ban on gun ownership. “A person who assaults another recklessly ‘use[s]’ force, no less than one who carries out that same…

The Role of Probation in the Brock Turner Rape Case: A System Failure

The country’s attention has been riveted on the outcome of a single rape case in Santa Clara County to an extent rarely seen before. We have been collectively touched by the victim’s impact statement: the clear and painfully honest public airing of her trauma and pain. Though this jury returned…

Streamlining Your Agency’s U Visa Policy and Practice

The National Immigrant Women’s Advocacy Project (NIWAP), in partnership with the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), is excited to announce the launch of its virtual Monthly U Visa Roundtable Series for Law Enforcement and Prosecutors. NIWAP’s national faculty of law enforcement officers and prosecutors, who are…

The war in Congress over rape in the military, explained

Sexual assault is a huge problem in the US military. And for many victims, the process of reporting their crime and seeking justice can be as traumatic as their assault. Most members of Congress and military officials agree that these basic facts are true, and that more reforms to the…

Stanford sex-assault victim: ‘You took away my worth’

Standing in front of a full courtroom in Palo Alto on Thursday, the 23-year-old college graduate who was sexually assaulted by former Stanford University student Brock Turner turned to address him directly. "I was awake, right?" The young woman, Emily Doe, whose name has been changed to protect her privacy,…

Presidential Proclamation — LGBT Pride Month, 2016

Since our founding, America has advanced on an unending path toward becoming a more perfect Union.  This journey, led by forward-thinking individuals who have set their sights on reaching for a brighter tomorrow, has never been easy or smooth.  The fight for dignity and equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and…

Should Domestic Violence Victims Go To Prison For Killing Their Abusers?

LadyKathryn Williams-Julien’s first childhood memory is of her father punching her mother in the face. She was 6. Her mother fell to the ground, where Williams-Julien was already cowering. They were eye-to-eye, mother and child, both trembling with fear. “Her whole face was covered with blood,” she said quietly, sitting…

Almost a Third of Mass Shooting Deaths in 2015 Were Related to Domestic Violence

Thirty-one percent of all mass shooting deaths in 2015 were related to domestic violence incidents, according to a New York Times analysis published Sunday. The New York Times examined violent episodes in which four or more people were killed or wounded by a firearm, including the shooter. In 2015, there…

Controlling UK Man Jailed for 28 Months

Mohammed Anwaar, 27, pleaded guilty to coercive and controlling behaviour. Legislation to make this type of behaviour a criminal offence was only introduced in December. Anwaar, of Charlotte Road, Sheffield, also admitted nine counts of assault and criminal damage. South Yorkshire Police said Anwaar had exercised "controlling and abusive behaviour over…

Advocates Have High Hopes for DV Hotline for Native Women

Rape and domestic violence against Native women have reached “epidemic proportions,” but the hotlines that could help are often unprepared for the unique cultural needs of tribal women who may live in rural areas with little support and a bewildering legal system. But that could be changing. Sometime this year,…

Domestic Violence Often Omitted from Sentencing Reforms

On March 8, the Iowa House of Representatives passed a bill setting new mandatory minimum sentences in domestic violence cases. Those convicted of domestic violence three times must serve 85 percent of their sentences prior to release, regardless of their conduct while imprisoned. The Iowa Senate voted unanimously to adopt…

Office on Violence Against Women Announces New Program to Support Tribal Governments

This new program was authorized in the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA 2013) and received its first appropriation in fiscal year 2016.  VAWA 2013 recognizes tribes’ inherent power to exercise “special domestic violence criminal jurisdiction” (SDVCJ) over certain defendants, regardless of their Indian or non-Indian status, who…

School crime rates down in most every category — except sex crimes at colleges

Postsecondary institutions reported a 34 percent decline in crimes between 2001 and 2013, with decreases in every category except forcible sex crimes, which rose 120 percent over the same period. It is not clear whether sex crimes are occurring more frequently or whether victims have become more willing to report…

Sexual Assault Ruling in Oklahoma Spurs Calls to Change State Laws

Outraged activists and prosecutors in Oklahoma called for changes to a state law on forced oral sex after a court rejected the prosecution of a teenage boy in Tulsa because his 16-year-old accuser had been intoxicated to the point of unconsciousness. “Forcible sodomy cannot occur where a victim is so…

Reentry Resources Available

The National Clearinghouse for the Defense of Battered Women has compiled a number of resource listings about survivors as they reenter their communities after being incarcerated in prison and/or jail.  READ MORE

At Brigham Young, a Cost in Reporting a Rape

Before she could move into a dormitory at Brigham Young University or sign up for freshman classes, Brooke had to sign the college’s Honor Code. Part moral compass and part contract, the Honor Code is a cornerstone of life for the nearly 30,000 students at Brigham Young, a Mormon-run university.…

Remembering Jen Wright

Jen Wright It’s so painful to lose colleagues and friends. We lost Jen Wright on March 16th to cancer; she was a great team member who gave so much to her work. Jen was a long-time staff member at Arrowhead Regional Corrections in Duluth, MN. Jen loved training too, she…

Federal Study Increases Understanding of Homeless Youth

The first-of-its-kind study, funded by ACF’s Family & Youth Services Bureau and conducted by researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, focused on 873 youth ages 14 to 21 in 11 cities. Respondents included street youth receiving services from ACF’s Street Outreach Program grantees and street youth who were not currently…

Obama Designates New Women’s Equality Memorial

Obama created the Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument with a presidential proclamation, honoring both Alva Belmont, the National Woman's Party benefactor, and Alice Paul, who founded the party and served as its chief strategist. Obama will deliver remarks Tuesday morning at the house, which served as the party's fifth headquarters,…

International Anti-Street Harassment Week, April 10-16

In its sixth year, Meet Us on the Street: International Anti-Street Harassment Week (April 10-16) will be observed in more than 30 countries. Tens of thousands of people in countries like Afghanistan, Australia, Cameroon, Chile, Egypt, France, Guatemala, the Maldives, Nepal, and Yemen will participate in actions that challenge the…

UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women Issues Annual Call for Proposals

The annual call for proposals is open for applications for the 20th cycle of grant giving from the ‪UN Trust Fund‬. The fund focuses on three priority areas including preventing violence, expanding access to critical services for survivors; and strengtheing the implementation of national laws. This year there is also a…

Woman Accused Of Murdering Her Abusive Ex Goes Free After Almost Three Years Behind Bars

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Twelve jurors found Cherelle Baldwin not guilty of murder on Thursday in the death of her ex-boyfriend, Jeffrey Brown.  Baldwin collapsed to the floor in tears as the verdict was announced.  “My baby,” she cried. “My baby will have his mommy back.” Police say Baldwin, 24, ran…

FL Judge Who Jailed DV Victim Admits Error

A Florida judge who sent a crying domestic violence victim to jail has finally admitted she was wrong. Seminole County Judge Jerri Collins has agreed to a public reprimand in a plea deal with the state, the Orlando Sentinel reported Thursday. Judge Collins had come under fire for berating and imprisoning the woman after she…

April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month

In the United States April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence and to educate communities on how to prevent it. READ MORE

CFFPP Releases New Report: “If I Had Money”

Children and teenagers need a variety of resources in order to thrive, grow, and later succeed as adults. They need the support and love of their parents and families, financial resources and economic stability, access to quality education, opportunities for employment, and avenues for contributing in other ways to their…

What it’s like to be a male survivor of sexual assault

If Adam slept through the night, he knew, it would be good day. But that didn't happen often, even after a relative stopped raping him. Now 34, Adam says the abuse began when he was 14 and stopped as soon as he turned 18. His relative warned him that if…

Congresswomen Launch First Ever Caucus on Black Women and Girls

“From barriers in education, to a gender-based pay gap that widens with race, to disparities in both diagnoses and outcomes for many diseases, our society forces Black women to clear many hurdles faced by no other group, and asks them to do it with little assistance,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman.…

“What is the Price of Justice?”

People in communities of color who are struggling to achieve economic security often find themselves burdened by court-ordered financial obligations that they have no ability to pay. Frequently, this results in people being incarcerated in local jails due to courts’ unwillingness to examine, or disregard of, each person’s financial circumstances.…

Senate Holds Backpage in Contempt of Congress in Sex Trafficking Investigation

n October 2015, Backpage and its CEO, Carl Ferrer, received a congressional subpoena from the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs’ Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations to answer questions regarding the site’s safety protocols for ads, some of which have been connected to sex trafficking involving minors. Both parties,…

More High Ranking Officers Being Charged With Sex Crimes Against Subordinates

Since September, the armed forces have court-martialed or filed sexual-assault charges against four colonels from the Air Force, Army and Marines. In addition, a Navy captain was found guilty of abusive sexual contact during an administrative hearing. Historically, it has been extremely rare for senior military officers to face courts-martial.…

Study Finds That Digital Assistants Do Not Understand Rape Crises

As we increasingly rely on digital assistants like Apple’s Siri or Samsung’s S Voice, many question the extent to which these systems should be programmed to respond to crises like rape or domestic assault. For the time being, a recent study finds, they’re scarcely of any use. The primary objective…

Domestic Violence During Pregnancy Doubles Risk of Premature Birth

Women who experience domestic violence while pregnant are twice as likely to give birth to a premature baby or a baby with low birth weight, according to a new study.  Researchers from the University of Iowa performed a meta-analysis on 50 studies that looked at the effects of domestic violence…

This Common Response To Campus Sexual Assault Doesn’t Actually Protect Victims

In most college sexual assault cases, schools take the early step of instituting a no-contact order between the alleged victim and the accused assailant. The order, similar to a restraining order, serves as an interim accommodation for the person reporting an assault. It helps keep the two parties away from…

Advocacy Learning Center Now Accepting Applications

Embark on an interactive and transformative journey with advocacy groups across the country to explore our collective roots and renew our efforts to end violence against women and children. Whether we work with those who have been sexually assaulted, battered, or stalked, or with women who are trafficked or prostituted,…

Tribal Leaders Call for Expanded Jurisdiction Over Non-Native Domestic Violence Offenders

Recognizing that the Department of Justice’s 2014 decision to grant special domestic violence criminal jurisdiction under VAWA was a “historic” step toward upholding tribal sovereignty, advocates and tribal leaders say that the law should be expanded upon to grant greater protections to tribal citizens at risk of assaults by non-Natives,…

Teen Dating Violence Is Target of New CDC Program

Reducing teen dating violence in the United States is the aim of a new program introduced by federal health officials. This is a widespread problem that can have serious effects. But, many teens don't report incidents because they're afraid to tell their family and friends, the U.S. Centers for Disease…

New Guidebooks Aim to Help Police Officers Connect With Diverse Communities

The Vera Institute of Justice today released three guidebooks aimed at fostering community policing strategies and building trust with diverse communities. The release was announced by Attorney General Loretta Lynch at the launch of the second phase of her national Community Policing Tour at the Doral Police Department in Miami-Dade…

Once Every 16 Hours, An American Woman Is Fatally Shot by a Current or Former Romantic Partner

On Thursday, January 28, Tania Adams, a 41-year-old mother of three, was gunned down by her estranged husband in the clubhouse of a planned community she worked at in Homestead, Florida. He then wounded one of her co-workers before fatally shooting himself. According to a fundraising drive set up to…

Black Lives Matter Partners With Reproductive Justice Groups to Fight for Black Women

Every activist worth her hand-lettered sign knows that it takes collaboration to create change, and February 9th marks a linking of arms between the leaders of organizations that seek to center the rights of Black women. Regina Mahone, the managing editor of RH Reality Check, lead a discussion with Monica…

Revisiting the NFL’S Domestic Violence Efforts

Among the countless ads airing during Super Bowl 50, there will be an anti-domestic violence spot from the group No More. It's the second consecutive year the organization's public service announcements air during the big game. Domestic violence and the NFL have been unhappily coupled more than a few times…

Bill Cosby May Have Changed Police Rape Investigations

At the new year’s dawn, New York Police Commissioner William J. Bratton made an unprecedented announcement: The city had experienced a sharp increase in reported rapes, driven in part by victims bringing forward years-old assaults. One-fifth of the assaults reported in 2015 happened at least a year prior to the…

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

With one in three teens experiencing some form of abuse from a dating partner, now is the time to have conversations about dating violence with the teens in your life. Even if you don’t see the warning signs, learning how to create healthy relationships and avoid abusive ones are skills…

Survivor Victory: Erica Kinsman Wins Historic Settlement Against Florida State

FSU must report on these efforts every year for the next five years. It’s the largest settlement of its kind in U.S. history. This settlement is a win for survivors everywhere. Through her bravery, resilience and integrity, Erica was able to transcend her traumatic experience, stand up to FSU’s institutional…

Ex-Cop Gets 263 Years For Raping, Sexually Assaulting Black Women While On Patrol

Jurors had recommended that Daniel Holtzclaw be sentenced to 263 years in prison for preying on women in 2013 and 2014. District Judge Timothy Henderson agreed, said Holtzclaw will serve the terms consecutively and denied his request for an appeal bond. Holtzclaw waived his right to remain in custody in…

Special Collection: Disaster and Emergency Preparedness and Response

Although the body of research on post-disaster violence is limited, the available information from recent experiences has demonstrated that gender violence is a critical issue facing communities affected by disasters. Concerns about injuries, infectious diseases and the provision of basic needs often take precedence over the surveillance of violence in…

Sexual Violence Not Just a College Problem

Sexual assault has become a dominant topic on the nation’s college campuses in recent years, as student activists have spoken out and the Obama administration has pushed for institutional change. But it has largely remained a hidden issue in elementary, middle and high schools, where parents assume their children are…

When Women Must Choose Between Abuse And Homelessness

Even the baby, at 7 months old, seemed to know something wasn’t right. She cried and trembled, inconsolable. Her big brother, only 5, was tense. Their mother was scared and on the run, and they could feel it. Lily, whose real name has been changed to protect her identity, had…

Study Finds That Medics Sent to Help Domestic Violence Victims Often Blame Them Instead

Imagine that it’s midnight and you’re hiding in a bathroom, terrified. You didn’t want to call 911, but you were desperate. When the paramedics arrive, you feel momentarily relieved. Then they start to ask you questions—Have you had anything to drink tonight? Was there an argument? What did you say…

Remembering Ellen Pence

It's difficult to adequately describe the impact Ellen had on our lives and our work here at BWJP, and indeed on the whole movement to end violence   against women. Ellen’s legacy is one of critical analysis, compassionate listening, delightful humor, and commitment to justice. Below a few of Ellen’s close…

President Obama Announces Executive Actions to Reduce Gun Violence

Gun violence has taken a heartbreaking toll on too many communities across the country. Over the past decade in America, more than 100,000 people have been killed as a result of gun violence—and millions more have been the victim of assaults, robberies, and other crimes involving a gun. Many of…

England And Wales Expand The Meaning Of Domestic Abuse

A groundbreaking law on domestic abuse takes effect today in England and Wales. It expands the meaning of domestic violence to include psychological and emotional torment. So it is now a crime there to control your spouse, say, through social media or online stalking. Experts in domestic violence say it…

Activists Welcome China’s 1st Domestic Violence Law

Activists largely welcomed China's first national anti-domestic violence law on Monday, although some criticized the apparent omissions of sexual violence and gay couples. The law approved Sunday by China's legislature will take effect in March, the official Xinhua News Agency reported.Women's federations and civil organizations have been pushing for a…

Cops Get New Guidance On Responding To Sexual Assault And Domestic Violence

Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced new guidance Tuesday designed to help law enforcement prevent gender bias when responding to sexual assault and domestic violence incidents."We know that sometimes this bias, whether implicit or explicit, can stand in the way of effective law enforcement and can severely undermine law enforcement’s ability…

Police Body Cameras in Domestic and Sexual Assault Investigations

One of the hottest topics in domestic violence and policing, and policing generally, is the use of body cameras by law enforcement. This issue has become increasingly debated as the public demand for police accountability is on the rise, and technology enhancements offer new opportunities for better data capture. However,…

DHS Releases New U and T Visa Law Enforcement Resource Guide

This guide addresses concerns, answers common questions, and provides accurate information on signing I-918B and I-914B forms for federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and other government agencies qualified to sign U visa certifications such as the EEOC, federal and state labor departments, adult and child…

Court Holds that Judges May Consider Risk Factors

Facts of the CaseFollowing a hearing on a petitioner’s application for a civil protection order, the trial court found that the petition and testimony satisfied Kentucky’s statutory standards for the issuance of an order.  On the docket sheet in the court file, the trial court noted additional findings of fact,…

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Today is the first day of Domestic Violence Awareness Month! While we’ve made great strides to address this rampant issue (through legislation like the Violence Against Women Act, programs that help support survivors and victims of abuse, and efforts to teach young people about healthy relationships), there’s still so much…

Transgender Sexual Violence Survivors: A Self-Help Guide to Healing and Understanding

Transgender survivors of sexual assault - who make up approximately half of the trans community - face unique healing issues. To help meet those unique needs, FORGE is announcing the publication of "Transgender Sexual Violence Survivors: A Self-Help Guide to Healing and Understanding," which is available now. This 132-page document…

An Extra Safety Measure for Domestic Violence Victims

This Washington Post editorial features work done by the Montgomery County (Maryland) Court Watch program. The report found that 71% of judges did not require “staggered exits,” a nationally recognized best practice that protects victims of domestic violence from intimidation and threats by their abusers after leaving court.  Read full…

Why Victims of Domestic Violence Don’t Testify, Particularly Against NFL Players

Advocates for victims of domestic violence are often asked about victims' lack of engagement or "cooperation" with the criminal justice process. This article provides a thorough analysis about why victims may strategically choose not to participate in criminal cases against their abusers.  Read full article

NCALL Releases Technology Safety Toolkit for Older Adults

The toolkit has two main goals: to provide information about common technologies, including assistive technology, and to identify ways older adults can safeguard themselves from those who misuse technology to control, harass, stalk, and/or threaten them. Read full article