A step forward for VAWA, and steps needed for gun control and women's healthcare: Civic action to-do list for 3-18-19


3. A bipartisan Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) has been introduced with important provisions that increase prevention funding, protect Native American victims of sexual assault, and provide resources for law enforcement to reduce domestic violence homicides. 

In a nutshell: Representatives Karen Bass (D) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R) introduced H.R.1585, a narrowly-focused reauthorization that addresses gaps identified by victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence and the people who work on the ground with them every day.

Take Action: Register here for a grassroots call with the Representatives Bass and Fitzpatrick, as well as issue area experts, on Thursday at 4:00 p.m. (ET) to learn more about the bill and how you can take action.


2. On Friday we witnessed yet another incident of horrific violence in a place of worship. Christchurch, New Zealand can now be added to the long list of communities that have been devastated by mass shootings.

In a nutshell: This violence against minority communities, fueled by white supremacist rhetoric, is not new, but it is a rising threat both within the United States and around the world. (learn more)

Take Action: New Zealand is moving swiftly to reform its gun laws, and our country should do the same. Tell your Senators to co-sponsor the Background Check Expansion Act (S. 42)!


1. A bill that ensures that all pregnancy related care, including abortions, are covered by both private and public insurance was introduced in both chambers of Congress last week. 

In a nutshell: The EACH Woman Act lifts bans that restrict coverage for abortion in Medicaid and other government-managed health insurance programs – a burden that falls heaviest on women of color, low-income women, and young women. (learn more)

Take Action: Tell your Senators and Representative to co-sponsor the EACH Woman Act.