Every day, millions of refugee women and girls around the world risk being raped, beaten - even killed - as they search for the firewood they need to cook for their families. It's happening everywhere from Sudan to Sri Lanka, Ethiopia to Ecuador, and it must not continue.
To help protect women and girls at risk of rape and assault, Congress must pass the International Violence Against Women Act. This landmark bill, to be re-introduced in the new session of Congress, would make efforts to address sexual violence a key priority in U.S. foreign assistance programs. It contains a number of important provisions aimed at increasing services for survivors of sexual violence and improving prevention and protection programs. For millions of refugee women and girls risking personal harm while attempting to collect firewood, this bill is critical.
We want to make sure this issue is a top priority for Congress in 2009. Ask your senators and representatives to support the International Violence Against Women Act today!
