For Policy-Makers
Anyone can be a policy-maker; if you have an interest in the issue and a desire to create positive change, you can help shape legislation. Advocating for legislative change is one of the most important ways to combat dating violence.
Advocacy can take place on the local, state or national level. It may include rallying for changes to criminal statutes and civil protection order laws, or arguing for increased funding for services to youth experiencing dating violence. You may participate in policy-making through grassroots lobbying, letter writing campaigns, or testimony before legislative bodies.
The resources on this page offer suggestions for how you can get involved in the legislative process.
The Issues
Federal
Federal legislation like the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) authorizes critical funding for domestic violence programs in every state in the country. VAWA is one of several sources of federal funding for programs that specifically address the needs of youth experiencing dating violence. Because attention to this issue is new and emerging, an increase in federal funding for youth programs is vital.
State-by-State
It is important to advocate for increases to state funding for domestic violence programs that benefit youth. But advocates at the state level also have the opportunity to rally for changes to substantive laws about youth rights, especially the rights of minors. State laws have significant affects on youth experiencing dating violence:
- Access to civil protective orders for minor victims
- Treatment of minor abusers in the criminal justice system
- Availability of confidential services for youth, including shelter, counseling, and medical treatment
- Response to abuse on school campuses
States have only begun to address the issue of teen dating violence in their legislation. Let your voice be heard so that emerging laws reflect the realities of youth relationships.
Strategies
Letters of Support or Opposition
Making your opinion known to your local and state representatives is an integral part of the policy-making process. One of the most effective ways to do this is by writing a letter to your representative expressing your support or opposition to legislation. Here are a few examples of letters which can be used to communicate your position on an issue.
Written and Oral Testimony
Another way you can make your voice heard is by presenting testimony about pending legislation. You may testify in person or by submitting your statement in writing. If you are motivated by the issue, especially if you can share direct experience that is relevant to the legislation, consider providing testimony. Below are samples of written and oral testimony provided by Break the Cycle on important issues to youth experiencing dating violence.
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Written Testimony
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Oral Testimony
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Contact Us
There are many ways to work toward change. If you know of legislation pending in your state about this issue, let us know by emailing policy@breakthecycle.org. We want to share legislative information in your state with the Break the Cycle community across the country. If you need more ideas about how to get involved with pending legislation, we are here to help.
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