Support Keeping Women and Girls Safe from the Start Act of 2021

From ELCA Advocacy. Lutheran advocates have been among those urging their Representatives to co-sponsor the Safe from the Start Act of 2021 (H.R. 571). A similar bill has now been introduced in the Senate. Like H.R. 571, the Keeping Women and Girls Safe from the Start Act of 2021 (S. 765) expands the ability of the U.S. government to prevent gender-based violence and provide early interventions at the onset of humanitarian emergencies. Take this opportunity to ask your Senator to co-sponsor.

By formalizing the Safe from the Start initiative currently administered by the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Aid (USAID), the legislation will help strengthen staff training and integrate important interventions to mitigate risks for gender-based violence in all humanitarian sectors. In addition, S.765, like H.R. 571, will enhance partnerships with local organizations to increase capacity, update objectives for protection and empowerment of women and girls, and institute congressional reporting requirements to ensure progress and accountability.

Gender-based violence increases during conflict and humanitarian crises. The United Nations reports that 1 in 5 refugees or internally displaced women living in humanitarian crises have experienced sexual abuse. In conflict situations, gender-based violence is sometimes used as a weapon of war. Initiatives such as Safe from the Start and the Global Call to Action on Protection from Gender-based Violence in Emergencies have moved this issue to the forefront of humanitarian work. It is crucial to ensure that this transformative work continues.

As Lutherans we believe all human beings are made in the image of God. The ELCA social message “Gender-based Violence” says, “Simply stated, gender-based violence in all its forms is a sinful rebellion against the triune God and a rejection of God’s good work in this world.” The social message invites us to engage in efforts to end gender-based violence in our churches and communities—both here at home and abroad.

Please take a moment to urge your Senator to co-sponsor the Keeping Women and Girls Safe from the Start Act of 2021.