Hoyer Hosts Roundtable on Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence

BOWIE, MD – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) marked Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which runs throughout October, by hosting a roundtable discussion on resources for victims of domestic violence in collaboration with the Prince George's County Department of Family Services. There were representatives from a number of organizations and agencies in attendance to spotlight what they are doing to support victims, spread awareness, and combat domestic violence. The roundtable was held at the Prince George's Memorial Library System in Bowie.

"I want to thank the Prince George's County Department of Family Services for collaborating with my office to host this important roundtable on domestic violence, and the representatives from each organization that attended," said Congressman Hoyer. "I am proud to have been a cosponsor of the original Violence Against Women Act that passed in 1994, and I was proud to expand the scope of that law when we passed a reauthorization last year. Because of VAWA, there is greater access to services and resources in our communities that assist victims of domestic violence and provide law enforcement officers with the tools they need to prosecute abusers. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to continue investing in important programs like these."

"Domestic violence does not discriminate – its impact is felt in every community, regardless of age, ethnic background, gender, or income," continued Congressman Hoyer.  "It is important for all of us to work together – from advocates to affected families, to community leaders and elected officials – to ensure that no one has to live in fear as a result of domestic violence. As we mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, we must rededicate ourselves to the task of rooting it out wherever it lurks and breaking the vicious cycle that has plagued families across our nation."

Representatives from the following organizations attended today's event: Prince George's County Family Crisis Center, the Maryland Crime Victims Resource Center, the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center at Prince George's Hospital Center, the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence, Healing Hearts and Minds, LLC, and Still I Rise, Inc.