WASHINGTON DC (May 6, 2020) — Senator Charles "Chuck" Grassley (R-IA) led a bipartisan group of senators in introducing a resolution to recognize those who help victims of sexual violence. The resolution commends crisis-hotline personnel, sexual-assault forensic nurses, counselors, and first-responders who came to the aid of victims of sexual assault during this year’s COVID-19 pandemic. April is National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.
“This resolution represents the great appreciation of, and an expression of support by, the Senate for the work of individuals in the United States who have provided and continue to provide an essential service to advance the safety and emotional wellness of survivors of sexual violence during the national emergency declared by the President under the National Emergencies Act,” the resolution states.
“The Senate extends its appreciation to the staff and volunteers of national and community organizations for their tireless efforts in supporting survivors of sexual assault throughout the year, but especially during such national emergency.
“… and public safety, law enforcement, and health professionals should be recognized and applauded for their continued efforts to ensure that perpetrators of sexual assault are held accountable, both during such national emergency and throughout the year.”
Original cosponsors include Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Doug Jones (D-AK), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
Full text of the resolution follows and can be found HERE.