Two things we can do to prevent domestic violence

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to reflect on what we can do to end the cycle of domestic violence and promote healthy, respectful relationships.

We’ve made important progress with the passage and renewal in 2013 of the Violence Against Women Act. This landmark law has done a lot to support survivors and end the cycle of violence – but we must do more. Let’s start with two important things.

First, we need to do more to keep guns out of the hands of abusers and stalkers. Oregon recently passed a law that allows law enforcement officers to confiscate firearms and ammunition from anyone who has a restraining order against them, or has been convicted of domestic violence. We need these protections nationally – these laws save lives.

Second, we need to teach our children about respectful relationships at an early age so we can begin to break the cycle of violence.I'm working to improve age-appropriate sex education curriculum in our schools so that it starts laying the foundation for our children to develop healthy, violence-free relationships.

There is so much work left to do to end domestic violence in Northwest Oregon and the country. I hope you will join me this month in taking a stand against domestic violence.

With appreciation,