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July 30, 2010

Washington, D.C. – Sue Else, president of the National Network to End Domestic Violence, today issued the following statement commending President Obama and Congress for enacting the Tribal Law and Order Act of 2010, landmark legislation that strengthens law enforcement and justice in Indian communities.

“This groundbreaking legislation will help to end domestic and sexual violence in Indian communities. One in three women on Indian Reservations will be a victim of sexual assault or rape sometime during their lifetime. The Tribal Law and Order Act will provide tools to tribal justice officials, strengthen coordination among law enforcement agencies and increase accountability for perpetrators. It is a much-welcomed step toward making Indian communities safer.

“This is a great triumph for all those who have worked for so many years to stop violence against Indian women. The National Congress of American Indians, Clan Star, the Tribes and victim advocates serving Indian women have done tremendous work leading up to this victory.

“We thank President Obama for signing this lifesaving legislation into law. We extend our gratitude to Senator Dorgan for introducing it and to the bi-partisan members of the House and Senate for supporting it.”