Transitioning Times

Sexual Assaults Should Be Expected by Female Military Personnel, According to Fox News Contributor

2012-02-29T12:23:00.000-08:00

If you haven't already heard, one of Fox News' contributors, Liz Trotta, made some disparaging remarks about women in the military. Trotta was issuing commentary in light of the Pentagon announcing new rules easing the ban on women serving in combat. For Trotta, the issue is having “women once more, the feminist, going, wanting to be warriors and victims at the same time.” She cited a recent Pentagon report that violent sex crimes in the military have increased over the last 6 years and said women should “expect” it, decrying more levels of bureaucracy to support women who have been “raped too much.“ Here are her comments.

TROTTA: But while all of this is going on, just a few weeks ago, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta commented on a new Pentagon report on sexual abuse in the military. I think they have actually discovered there is a difference between men and women. And the sexual abuse report says that there has been, since 2006, a 64% increase in violent sexual assaults. Now, what did they expect? These people are in close contact, the whole airing of this issue has never been done by Congress, it’s strictly been a question of pressure from the feminist.
And the feminists have also directed them, really, to spend a lot of money. They have sexual counselors all over the place, victims’ advocates, sexual response coordinators. … So, you have this whole bureaucracy upon bureaucracy being built up with all kinds of levels of people to support women in the military who are now being raped too much.

Of course, we, as a sexual assault center, are discouraged by someone in the media saying that women should expect to be raped. Women joining the military expect a lot of things--to be pushed physically in basic training, to be educated on their particular job, to wear a uniform and be critiqued on that uniform's tidiness. But because something is common does not make it right. Women should not have to "deal with" harrassment, or sexual assaults because it has become commonplace. We need to work to make it rare.

The commentator also reasoned that "these people are in close contact," insinuating that it is due to their close proximity to men that women get assaulted. This comment is in the vein of "boys will be boys" or "he couldn't help himself." Being in close contact does not give someone the right to sexually assault another person.

The assertion that feminists have pressured Congress to spend a great deal of money to help victims also is problematic. Oh, what a terrible fate for victims of crime! To have a support system, to have commanders who know what to do when someone reports a sexual assault, to have evidence preserved for prosecution, how dare they want justice and support!

Transitions is a part of the healing process and part of the support system for sexual assault victims in Union, Snyder, and Northumberland Counties. We see how important we are to victims who may not have anyone else to speak to at 3:00 am, when they have a flashback. We are lucky enough to have a Sexual Assault Response Team in Snyder County, with an empathetic District Attorney, an understanding County Detective, cooperation from Evangelical Hospital's SANE program, and the Victim/Witness Coordinator. We have seen how much easier it is for a victim to operate within a justice system that cohesively works together. We hope that the military is able to do the same. I would also argue that many sexual assault victims who reach out for help do not find "sexual counselors all over the place," and wonder if Ms. Trotta could provide the number of sexual counselors available to military personnel, both state-side and overseas.

Finally, I would like to address the quote that the issue is "“women once more, the feminist, going, wanting to be warriors and victims at the same time.” Sexual Assault Survivors, yes, SURVIVORS, are both warriors and victims. They have been victimized, but they often choose to become warriors, survivors, fighters, champions, overcoming adversity that few can understand.

A host for Fox News, Eric Shawn, tried to talk Trotta down a bit. “You certainly want the people fighting the war to be protected from anything that could be illegal,” he said. But Trotta wouldn’t have it. “Nice try Eric,” she said, “This whole question of women in the military has not been aired properly, and it’s the great sleeping giant.”

Here is an another article that includes a clip.

11 Methods and Styles Used by Child Molesters

2012-02-23T06:26:00.000-08:00

As a sexual assault center, Transitions often takes calls and provides services to parents and family members of children who have been sexually abused. While it is very difficult to completely prevent child sexual abuse from occuring, the PA Sexual Offenders Assessment Board released the following list to help unsuspecting caregivers recognize grooming behaviors. It is this grooming that allows for predators to perpetrate undetected, often for extended periods of time. They have also released a video, available on their website, called Unusual Suspects.

The 11 Methods and Styles Used by Child Molesters
from PA Sexual Offenders Assessment Board
One of the most difficult topics for parents to understand and comprehend is the variety of “methods” that child molesters and abductors use to get physically close to children. One of the primary reasons that this topic is difficult to confront is that the approaches used by adults who “seduce” children appear, to the untrained eye, as normal behavior. To help parents understand how to keep their children safe from these approaches, we have compiled the following list of 11 “methods and styles of seduction” commonly used by child abductors and molesters.

The list was taken from a book written by Seth Goldstein, Esq., entitled "The Sexual Exploitation of Children." This book is used by child abuse investigators across the country and is considered the foremost textbook on this topic. Goldstein gained much of his knowledge while working as a city police officer and investigator for the Santa Clara and Napa County, California, District Attorney’s Office, where he specialized in child abuse cases for 13 years. During his years in the field, he worked one-on-one with many children and their families to bring the molesters to trial. Goldstein was also one of the founding members on the Board of Directors of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Goldstein worked with a group of professionals to develop the investigative techniques which have become the standard. The training curriculum they developed is used by the U. S. Department of Justice. According to Goldstein, the following common characteristics of sexual exploitation have been drawn from the vast number of cases of sexual abuse that have occurred in this country.

As you’ll see from the list, child molesters are very clever. They have tried-and-true ways to gain access to children and to disguise their inappropriate and unlawful activities from the eyes of caring adults. Basically their approaches with children are similar to the persuasive sexual approaches adults use with other adults; however, children don’t have the sophistication to understand what is happening. The fact is, the child molester pursues his prey with a purpose and will use any method that works. Goldstein makes a direct comparison between stalking prey and the seduction of children. “The offender, once he has targeted a child, will track down and methodically approach the child and begin to work on seducing him. All the while performing actions that appear, on the surface, to be normal. When in actuality he is introducing the child to sexuality.” All parents and guardians of children should understand these methods and styles of seduction used by child molesters so that they can keep their eyes and ears open for inappropriate actions and help children to live their young lives free from a molester’s desires.

Methods and Styles of Seduction
1. Affection and Attention
For the most part, a child is seduced in the same way as one adult seduces another. The offender takes him places, buys him things, impresses the child with his own personality, makes the child feel loved and indebted to the offender, then becomes physical with the child. It starts subtly, by holding hands, placing an arm over the shoulder, or putting a hand in the lap, then graduates to more explicit conduct.

2. Mislabeling the Activity
Another common method of seducing the child is to misrepresent what the offender is actually doing. This could be done by tricking the child into performing a sex act or by using a legitimate activity to achieve physical contact with the child, from which the offender can derive sexual gratification. In one case, a man who engaged in sexual activities with 8-to-9-year-old boys liked to play a game called “monster,” in which he would wrestle with the boys and touch their genitals and other areas. All of this was accomplished without the child’s knowing what was actually going on. From this kind of activity, the offender will graduate to more blatant touching. After the child feels more comfortable with the idea of the offender breaking the barrier of “personal space,” the offender will advance to sexual play. Another common ploy to trick the child into an act is to tell the child that what is being done is for a purpose other than the real one. For example, a young child was seduced into posing for photographers by being told that the offender was taking pictures for a publisher of medical books -- the pictures, he said, were to assist doctors in teaching others about sex.

3. Misrepresentation of Moral Values
Possessing little experience or knowledge, the child is often easily convinced that what the offender wants is a legitimate activity. It is easy to understand why children acquiesce to the demands of the child molester, considering the vast literature on sex with children and sex manuals that are on the market. The molesters frequently leave this type of literature out and available for children to “discover” by accident, or the offenders specifically show it to the child. In many cases, children have been shown films that are either sexually graphic or suggestive.

4. Slow/Subtle Exposure to the Concept of Sexual Activity
By constantly talking about sexual activities in the presence of the child, the offender slowly indoctrinates the child into the world of sex.

5. Curiosity
Another style of seduction is to pique the child’s curiosity. This is often done by leaving sexually oriented materials out and available to the children. This leads to conversations about sexual matters.

6. Narcotics and Alcohol
The use of narcotics and alcohol by the child molester is commonplace. What better way to get a child to a place he wouldn’t ordinarily go than to provide him with something he can’t ordinarily get? The use of alcohol is mostly limited to the older child; however, it is also a common denominator in some cases involving young children.

7. Misuse of Authority
This may take two forms. In the first, the offender takes advantage of his position of authority over a child, as in the following example. A Boy Scout leader told the children in his troop while on several outings to disrobe. Over a period of time he graduated from fondling them to orally copulating with them. Each time he told them not to tell anyone. In the second type of misuse of authority, the offender takes advantage of a position of special trust and represents the activity as legitimate, using his authority, stature and position to convince the child that what he wants is OK.

8. Rewards and Bribes
A very common style of seduction is the use of rewards. Sometimes the child is told in advance what he will receive if he cooperates with the offender. Other times the offender doesn’t tell the child until after the act. Soon the child learns that by doing what the offender wants, he can have his own way. The reward may be as elaborate as a car or as simple as an ice cream cone, depending on the circumstances. Children are easily lured into big money by promises to make them Hollywood stars. The hopes of grandeur, and comparisons made by the offender between the child and the child’s idols such as Brooke Shields, often make them easy prey. Modern advertising is often shown to the child, especially advertising that accents the sexuality of young children, to convince the child of the propriety of the acts.
9. Blackmail
Once the child has been placed in a compromising situation-sexually or otherwise-the offender can obtain some control over the child by threatening exposure. The offender knows that the child feels guilt and shame. The offender also knows that most children have very little self-esteem or confidence and they feel helpless in the situation. A deep concern of many children who have a close relationship with the offender is the fear of being taken away from their families. This threat may be expressed or implied by the offender, or it may be developed by the child with no direct threats being made.
10. Use of Pornography
Both child and adult pornography is often used by the child molester to seduce the child. In addition to misrepresenting moral standards, the pornography can be used to demonstrate the acts in which the offender wishes to engage. It may also be used to stimulate the child’s interest in the depicted activities and lower the child’s inhibitions.
11. Threats
Rarely is a threat of harm used to get the child to comply with the act. The only time a threat becomes necessary is to keep the child quiet and to continue participating in what the offender desires. For the most part, threats are made that imply negative consequences for both the victim and the offender if there is disclosure.

Copyright © Yello Dyno. Since 1987 Yello Dyno has helped more than 1 million children "walk tall" and "be smart" in today's exciting but increasingly dangerous world. The program provides educators, parents, and children with carefully designed educational and recovery tools. Through Yello Dyno, the children's safety champion, the program's unique entertainment-driven approach assures that personal safety for children is fun, non-fearful and empowering. Mention My ParenTime with any order and receive a discount! Reprinted with permission.

Child Abuse Not Mentioned in State of the Union

2012-02-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

In a perfect world, there would be no incidents of child abuse and neglect, but unfortunately the world is far from perfect. As a society we need to work together to ensure our children's safety. On January 27, 2012, during President Obama's fourth State of the Union Address he mentioned nothing about the millions of children who are abused. According to the National Children's Alliance, "Nearly five children die every day in America from abuse and neglect." We as the people need to help make a difference to protect our children and be their voice. Help be part of the voice for our children and call or email the White House to voice your concerns. 202-456-1414

Submitted by Tiffany C.

UN Study shows female genital mutilation/cutting on the decline in Africa

2012-02-08T06:23:00.000-08:00

from http://feministing.com/2012/02/07/un-study-shows-female-genital-mutilationcutting-on-the-decline-in-africa/

By Eesha Pandit | Published: February 7, 2012

A new United Nations report shows that almost 2,000 communities across Africa abandoned female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) last year, marking significant change across many nations and communities on the continent.
According to the report, issued jointly by the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), a total of 8,000 communities have renounced the practice of female genital mutilation/cutting.

Yesterday, February 6th, was the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM/C on which UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin stated:

These encouraging findings show that social norms and cultural practices are changing, and communities are uniting to protect the rights of girls and women.

According to the UN, each year, around three million women and girls – about 8,000 each day – face the risk of mutilation or cutting. An estimated 130 to 140 million girls and women have undergone the practice, mostly in Africa and some countries in Asia and the Middle East.

FGM/C refers to a number of practices, which involve cutting away part or all of the external genitalia. Many see the practice as a violation of the human rights of girls and women, particularly because it offers no health benefits, causes severe pain and has both immediate and long-term health consequences. The issue of female genital mutilation, sometimes called female genital cutting or circumcision is the prototypical example brought up in debates about moral and cultural relativism and the universality of human rights.
The moral question raised: What should we do when generally accepted international human rights standards conflict with long-standing cultural practices? This question was one of the very first questions in political theory that struck a deep chord with me. On one hand, I believe strongly in the importance of protecting human rights, for all. On the other hand, I know that the rights-framework has limitations and imperialism often comes to the Third World and the Global South in the guise of protectionism. So, what’s a girl to think?
Ultimately, for me it comes down to the fact that cultural relativists think about culture as an essential attribute of self-determination and of sovereignty, while thinking of international human rights law as the arbitrary dictates of the more powerful nations of the world. But I don’t think of culture that way. Sure it is important and as someone whose family legacy includes challenging imperialism and colonization, it is particularly important to me. I simply don’t think that culture is inviolable, either. It’s also possible for cultural practices to disenfranchise the less powerful and more marginalized in any given society – and for that reason, I’m not a cultural relativist. Culture is important, but it is not sacrosanct and above reproach. To counter imperialist forces that might use culture for it’s own ends (think of all the backlash from many feminists around the world when the invasion of Iraq was disingenuously justified due to Sadaam Hussien’s horrible treatment of women), we have to make sure that the most marginalized folks themselves are represented and are able to set the agenda for this kind of campaign.
In 2008, UNFPA and UNICEF came together to set up the Joint Programme for the Acceleration of the Abandonment of FGM/C. This strategy aims to make change in FGM/C practices by utilizing culturally sensitive, human rights-based approaches that link countries and communities together and then promotes a collective abandonment of the practice. And as we know, major socio-cultural shifts don’t happen in a vacuum, so the strategy engages folks from all sectors of society including traditional and religious leaders, women, men and young girls themselves. Together, the community discusses the harmful effects of the practice and debunks the notion that it’s a religious requirement. The initiative is being carried out in 15 African countries: Burkina Faso, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Senegal, Somalia, Sudan and Uganda.
Yesterday’s report shows that throughout Africa, more than 18,000 community education sessions were held, almost 3,000 religious leaders publicly declared that the rite should end, and more than 3,000 media features have covered the subject – all of which led to almost 2,000 communities declared their abandonment of the practice during 2011.
To mark the Day and the release of the new report, Dr. Osotimehin and UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake issued a joint statement renewing their commitment to put an end to the practice.

“We call on the global community to join us in this critical effort. Together, we can abolish FGM/C in one generation and help millions of girls and women to live healthier, fuller lives.”

Address Confidentiality Program

2012-02-02T05:47:00.000-08:00

National Stalking Awareness Month, January, is over, but stalking behavior does not end with a flip of the calendar. In light of this, we wanted to inform you about a program that Pennsylvania offers for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking.

Through the Office of the Victim Advocate, Pennsylvania offers victims the opportunity to participate in the Address Confidentiality Program. This program enables victims to use a P.O. Box in Harrisburg for their address on a government issued ID, school records, and other legal documents. This allows victims to keep their physical address confidential and provides a forwarding service.

To qualify for this program, a victim must be moving to a location that her abuser does not know. They also must be willing to designate the program as a representative for mail, including signing for certified mail. Mail will take an additional 5-7 business days to get to the recipient, however, keeping your address confidential can be the keystone to a successful safety plan.

Contact Transitions if you are interested in participating in this program.

Northumberland County District Attorney's Office Faces Cuts

2012-01-26T09:10:00.000-08:00

January 26, 2012

DA's plea fails

By Marcia Moore
The Daily Item
---- — SUNBURY -- Despite support from a dozen law enforcement officers from across Northumberland County and concerns that crime will rise if District Attorney Anthony Rosini's staff is cut by 20 percent, the county salary board voted Wednesday to eliminate one assistant district attorney.
By a vote of 4-1, the position that pays about $80,000 annually in salary and benefits was eliminated.
"You're taking a drastic step here by cutting the office. Believe me, it will come back to haunt you later. There will be problems in the court system," said Rosini, who cast the only vote to retain the position.
Lifting a pair of handcuffs above his desk for the audience to see, Commissioner Vinny Clausi said taxpayers "don't have to be handcuffed" by Rosini before Clausi and Commissioners Rick Shoch and Stephen Bridy and Controller Tony Phillips voted to cut the job.
In all, 11 county positions have been eliminated this year and taxes will rise by 1.95 mills to cover a projected $1.4 million deficit in the $71.67 million 2012 budget.
A nearly hour-long discussion, which escalated into a debate between Rosini and Clausi over union contract negotiations, preceded the salary board vote.
The board was not swayed by appeals to keep the assistant prosecutor from Steve Mazzeo or Craig Lutcher, police chiefs in Sunbury and Milton respectively, the presence of other officers from Mount Carmel, Shamokin, Kulpmont and Ralpho Township, a letter from Susquehanna Valley Women in Transition CEO DiAnn Baxley or a petition with 500 signatures.
The police chiefs echoed Rosini's argument that all of his five assistant prosecutors are needed to handle preliminary hearings at the four district judge courts across the county.
"We've spent years building a criminal justice system that meets the needs of Northumberland County," Rosini said, adding that he needs a full staff of five attorneys to handle more than 1,500 adult criminal cases a year and cover three county courtrooms, treatment court and the Children Advocacy Center in Point Township.
But Shoch said he's heard the other side as well, telling Rosini that the administration has received off-the-record calls from law enforcement officials who say his office could do without one assistant.
Rosini also raised the board's ire when he cited caseload comparisons to other fifth-class counties and faulted newly elected commissioners Shoch and Bridy for making a rush decision on eliminating the position, calling them "blind and in the dark" for not having an accurate financial picture.
"I take exception when you say we're not doing our due diligence. I've asked you for data and gotten nothing back from you," Bridy shot back.
Shoch added that the board did a criminal caseload comparison and found Rosini's office was at the lower end.
"This is an issue of budgetary concerns weighed against the needs of criminal justice system," he said.
Rosini tangled with Clausi, who complained that the district attorney hadn't spoken up when the county lost in arbitration and had to pay higher union salaries.
"Perhaps you ought to look at who's representing you in negotiations," Rosini said, suggesting the county officials would do better if they engaged in "reasonable" contract talks.
Rosini has until Monday to notify the county which assistant district attorney will be cut. If he doesn't, the county will eliminate the position of the most recent assistant district attorney hired, Michael Toomey.
Email comments to mmoore@dailyitem.com.

Below is the text of the letter Transitions sent to the Commissioners:

Dear Commissioners:

We are writing to respectfully ask that you reconsidercutting the Assistant District Attorney’s position in the Northumberland CountyDistrict Attorney’s Office.

Transitions provides services to victims and survivors inUnion, Snyder, and Northumberland Counties. We are needed in all threecounties, but Northumberland County has an especially high need for ourservices. In 2010, we served 260 victims in Northumberland County byproviding advocacy in the criminal justice system, far more than the 192victims in Union and Snyder Counties combined. A loss to the District Attorney’s Office, especially the loss of anAssistant District Attorney is a huge loss to victims of domestic violence andsexual assault in Northumberland County. Often these crimes take placewith limited, if any, witnesses and in a private residence. This makesthem especially difficult to prosecute. These cases need an attorney whohas the time and resources to dedicate to such victims. Eliminating anAssistant District Attorney would place undue pressure on the District Attorneyand the remaining Assistants that he may have. We believe this wouldresult in more domestic and sexual violence offenders being empowered by“beating the system.” Without a dedicated Assistant District Attorney toprosecute these cases to the fullest, the District Attorney’s Office may haveto drop charges, or offer pleas to cases they would have otherwisepursued. This results in survivors being less apt to participate inthe criminal justice system in the future. Participating in thecriminal justice system can be an empowering experience for a victim—when theirvoices are heard. When the community says that victims are not importantenough to warrant their offenders being prosecuted, how can we ask them toreport crimes? How can we expect victims to use their voices when theyare silenced in the criminal justice system? The loss of an AssistantDistrict Attorney is a gain for defendants, because they will be facing aharried, overworked, and possibly under-prepared District Attorney who may nothave the resources or time to dedicate to the abundance of cases that will fallinto his lap. Domestic and Sexual Violence victims deserve their cases tobe thoughtfully and thoroughly prosecuted by an adequately staffed DistrictAttorney’s Office.

Thank you for your consideration.

Appointments Are a Precious Opportunity

2012-01-24T08:32:00.000-08:00

The article below is a press release encouraging Ob-Gyn doctors andnurses to screen for domestic violence. Hopefully at your last doctor'sappointment, you were asked if you have a partner and if they have ever hurtyou. It is recommended that doctors and nurses screen for domestic violencewhenever asking routine questions.

I am so pleased that this has becomecommon practice. It is not so many years ago that victims suffered alone intheir homes, even after telling family or friends. We now have a name for thistype of abuse and it is recognized by such organizations as the AMA and ACOG.

Personal care appointments, whetherfor medical reasons or for vanity are great opportunities for professionals toengage in a conversation with their clients about domestic violence. We workclosely with Evangelical Hospital to provide training for their nurses and withEmpire Beauty School to provide training for their stylists. If you haveinteraction with someone who you suspect is being abused, please take the timeto ask them the questions. Is someone hurting you? Do you want help to stopthis abuse? Offer them compassion and kindness, but do not force them to dosomething they are not ready for. Survivors know when they are ready to leave;we have to trust their intuition, just as they do.

TUESDAY, Jan. 24 (HealthDay News) --Obstetricians and gynecologists should screen all patients for intimate partnerviolence, including during prenatal visits, according to new recommendationsfrom the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

In addition, ob-gyns should offerpatients support, and have referral and resource information on hand to give topatients who are victims of abuse.

Intimate partner violence includesphysical injury, psychological abuse, sexual assault, progressive isolation,stalking, deprivation, intimidation and reproductive coercion. The goal ofthese behaviors is to establish control over a partner.

The violence can occur among bothheterosexual and same-sex partners and at every level of society, regardless ofage, gender, income levels, race, ethnicity, religion or educationalbackground, according to a news release from the college.

About one in four women has beenphysically and/or sexually assaulted by a current or former partner, and nearly324,000 pregnant women are abused by their partners each year in the UnitedStates, researchers have found.

Intimate partner violence has beenlinked to poor pregnancy outcomes, including poor weight gain, infection, fetalinjury, preterm delivery, low birth weight and stillbirth.

Signs and symptoms that a woman isexperiencing violence include physical injuries, chronic headaches, chronicpelvic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and recurrent vaginal infections.Violence is often linked to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, unintendedpregnancy and suicide.

"Women of all ages experienceintimate partner violence, but it is most prevalent among reproductive-agewomen," Dr. Maureen Phipps, chair of the college's Committee on HealthCare for Underserved Women, said in the news release. "We have a primeopportunity to identify and help women who are being abused by incorporatingthis screening into our routine office visits with each and everypatient."

The recommendations are published inthe February issue of the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology.

-- Robert Preidt

SOURCE: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, news release, Jan.23, 2012

U.S. Justice Department Updates the Definition of Rape

2012-01-18T07:52:00.000-08:00

The Justice Department announced Friday it is revising adecades-old definition of rape to expand the kinds of offenses that constitutethe crime and for the first time, include men as victims.

Now, any kind of nonconsensual penetration, no matter thegender of the attacker or victim, will constitute rape -- meaning that attackson men will be counted.

The crime of rape will be defined as "penetration,no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, ororal penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of thevictim," a Justice Department statement said.

Attorney General Eric Holder said the new definition willlead to a more comprehensive reporting of rape in the FBI's annual compilationof crime statistics.

"These long overdue updates to the definition ofrape will help ensure justice for those whose lives have been devastated bysexual violence and reflect the Department of Justice's commitment to standingwith rape victims," Holder said. "This new, more inclusive definitionwill provide us with a more accurate understanding of the scope and volume ofthese crimes."

Overheard on CNN.com: New definition of rape reflectsreality, some readers say

An FBI advisory panel recently recommended the revisionto the antiquated definition, established in 1927.

The law then defined rape as "the carnal knowledgeof a female, forcibly and against her will." That meant that it was onlyan act of rape if a man forcibly penetrated a woman through her vagina. Itexcluded oral and anal penetration; rape of males; penetration of the vaginaand anus with an object or body part other than the penis; rape of females byfemales; and non-forcible rape.

Under the old definition, the case of former Penn Stateassistant coach Jerry Sandusky -- charged with 40 counts in what authoritiesallege was the sexual abuse of young boys -- would not be considered as rape.

"Needless to say we are very pleased that the FBIhas agreed to revise its definition used in data collection so it moreaccurately reflects what the public understands to be rape and what our currentcriminal statutes say," said Carol Tracy, executive director of theWomen's Law Project, which has been pushing for the definition change.

The revised definition includes any gender of victim orperpetrator. It also includes instances in which a victim is incapable ofgiving consent because of mental or physical incapacity, such as intoxication.Physical resistance is not required to demonstrate lack of consent.

At issue here is how the old definition of rape affectedthe FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting system.

Tracey and other advocates, as well as law enforcementofficials, have said that the old definition led to under-reporting of rape.That in turn shaped public perceptions of the prevalence of rape and affectedfederal funding for resources in combating the crime.

Justice and FBI officials said, however, that it couldtake several years for all 18,000 of the nation's police agencies to reportrape under the new definition.

All reporting to the Uniform Crime Report is voluntary,and state legal codes, resources, and technical capabilities vary widely.Although top officials expect reported forcible rapes eventually to increase fromthe 84,767 reported in 2010, they declined to offer any estimate of thestatistics to be issued for 2011.

"This change will give law enforcement the abilityto report more complete rape offense data, as the new definition reflects thevast majority of state rape statutes," said David Cuthbertson, assistantdirector of the FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services.

"As we implement this change, the FBI is confidentthat the number of victims of this heinous crime will be more accuratelyreflected in national crime statistics," he said.

In 2010, the last year for which a final report isavailable, the FBI reported a forcible rape every 6.2 seconds. With a broaderdefinition, that statistic will probably be even more grim, said Mai Fernandez,executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime.

"The problem is much greater than what you have beenpreviously seeing," she said. "You don't really know what the problemis. Therefore, you can't really create solutions to fit."

The push for a revision started with the Women's LawProject over a decade ago. Tracey had a letter written to FBI Director RobertMueller that was slated to be mailed on September 11, 2001.

The terrorist attacks that day changed everything. TheFBI's attention turned to other pressing issues.

Last year, Tracy testified before a congressionalcommittee looking at the failures of police departments to thoroughlyinvestigate rape. She said then that an antiquated, narrow definition of rapewas a harmful disservice to countless victims.

Friday, she thanked Justice and White House officials wholistened. Among them was Vice President Joe Biden, author of the ViolenceAgainst Women Act.

"Rape is a devastating crime and we can't solve itunless we know the full extent of it," Biden said Friday. "Thislong-awaited change to the definition of rape is a victory for women and menacross the country whose suffering has gone unaccounted for over 80years."

Kim Gandy, vice president of the Feminist MajorityFoundation, called the revision a "major policy change" that"will dramatically impact the way rape is tracked and reportednationwide."

Tracey, however, noted that the change is about datacollection and that America has a long way to go in tackling rape.

"We still need to improve police practices and ridsociety of the stereotypes about rape victims," she said. "This isone important change but not the only change that's needed."

January 06, 2012|By MoniBasu, CNN

Student Non-Discrimination Act

2012-01-13T12:21:00.000-08:00

In some local schools, January 9-13, 2012 was recognized as Bullying Awareness Week. Senator Al Franken is introducing a bill to protect students from discrimination and released a video asking people to contact their Senators to urge them to support this bill.

Below is a transcript of the video.

Justin Aaberg was a rising high school sophomore in Minnesota. Justin played the cello, in fact, he wrote music for the cello. His mother told people he was a sweet boy who seemed always to have a smile on his face. Justin came out to his mother when he was thirteen. On July 9th, 2010, Justin hanged himself in his bedroom. His mother later learned from Justin’s friends and from messages that he left before he died that he was the victim of constant anti-gay bullying. Justin was fifteen years old.
Justin’s story is not an anomaly. Justin was a victim in a wave of bullying against kids who are or are thought to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Nine out of ten LGBT kids are harassed or bullied in school. A third skipped school in the past month because they felt unsafe. And study after study has shown that LGBT kids are much more likely than their peers to attempt suicide. This is a tragedy, and it’s happening right now.
But the sad truth is that our federal laws fail kids like Justin. Federal laws say you can’t discriminate against kids because of their race, sex, religion or what country they’re from. But our laws say nothing about sexual orientation or gender identity. Our federal laws do not protect these kids.
LGBT kids are learning that it gets better after high school, and it does. But they shouldn’t have to wait. I have a bill that can help make it better for these kids right now. My bill, the Student Non-Discrimination Act, will make it better for kids by banning discrimination and harassment in public schools based on sexual orientation and gender identity. My bill will make it better by forcing schools around the country to protect kids like Justin. And my bill will make it better so that when parents call their child’s school and say, “My child isn’t safe,” that school will listen.
I’m doing every single thing I can to get this bill passed. More than one third of the Senate supports this bill. But we need your help, because this bill can only pass if we get more support. So if you’re watching this video, I’m asking you for your help. I’m asking you to take two minutes of your day today to call your Senator and ask him or her to co-sponsor the Student Non-Discrimination Act. Just call the Capitol Switchboard and ask to be connected to your Senator. And then I’m asking you to get two of your friends to call too. And call again next week, and the week after that, until the bill passes. That’s it. It’ll make a huge difference.
We can make it better for LGBT kids in schools right now. It’s going to be tough, but together we can do it. Thank you for your help.

Budgets Are Tight

2012-01-13T12:08:00.000-08:00

Budgets aretight—state government budgets, federal government budgets, household budgets. Everyone is feeling the pinch. Well, so is Transitions. Often, when people come into our shelters,they do not have the financial means to provide for themselves. Until other resources are available,Transitions provides for all dietary and hygiene needs. According to the USDA, a family of 2 on alow-cost plan spends an average of $103.20 per week on food. A family of 4 with children aged 2-3 and 4-5spend $149.50, with children aged 6-8 and 9-11, $175.70.

If you arelooking for a way to continue the holiday spirit through the year, considerdonating to Transitions. Gift cards forWal-Mart or Weis would be greatly appreciated so that clients can be providedwith groceries and medication. Pleasecontact Transitions at 570-523-1134 or 570-644-4488 to arrange for donationdrop off. Below are items that aregreatly needed at the shelter right now.

Transitionshas a very limited budget for food and many of the items that most people wouldconsider necessities are luxuries in the shelter, including snack foods andready-to-eat meals.

ImmediateShelter Needs:

Diapers-size4 and 5
Baby wipes
Deodorant
Paper towels
Toilet tissue
Tissues
Dish detergent
Sponges andSOS Pads
Clean products-specificallyClorox cleaner, bathroom cleaner, furniture polish, disinfectant spray, kitchencleaner, granite cleaner, Stainless steel cleaning spray, Pinesol, Window cleaner
Bleach
Dryer Sheets
HE Laundrydetergent
Black TrashBags, size 38 gallon or bigger
Canned or pouchtuna, chicken or salmon
Canned spaghetti,ravioli, etc.
Canned soup
Frozen dinners
Sugar
Salt andpepper
Ketchup
Mustard
Mayonnaise
Dill pickles
Any type ofsnacks
Canned fruit
Coffee
Powdered drinkmix
Manwich cannedcause
Canned SPAM

Definition of Stalking in Pennsylvania

2012-01-10T05:58:00.000-08:00

January, among other things, is National Stalking Awareness Month. Are you aware of what Pennsylvania's stalking law states?

The crime of stalking is committed when a person:
(1) Engages in a course of conduct or repeatedly commits acts toward another person, including following the person without proper authority, under circumstances which demonstrate either an intent to place such other person in reasonable fear of bodily injury or to cause substantial emotional distress to such other person; or
(2) Engages in a course of conduct or repeatedly communicates to another person under circumstances which demonstrate or communicate either an intent to place such other person in reasonable fear of bodily injury or to cause substantial emotional distress to such other person.

Many of the words in this statute are subjective. That is what makes stalking a difficult crime to prove to police officers and to prosecute. However, there are some things that stalking victims can do to help supply law enforcement with relevant information. If you believe you are being stalked, start recording the incidents, and consider reporting them to law enforcement. The following information is especially useful.

Date, Time, Description of Incident
Location of Incident

Witness Name (s) attached addresses and phone numbers

Police Contacted, which department, Incident or Report #

Officer's name, badge #

Transitions can provide you with a Stalking Incident and Behavior Chart in which to record this information, but any paper will do. If you are living with the person who is stalking you, consider storing the log with a friend or family member.

Protection from Abuse Orders can protect you from being stalked, but stalking is not included in the definition of abuse according to the PFA Act. Contact a legal advocate with Transitions if you are being stalked and considering filing a PFA.

Stalking is crime and can be prosecuted. If you believe you are being stalked, trust your instincts. Be aware of your surroundings and be careful in your travels. You are not alone.

2012-01-04T06:17:00.000-08:00

Presidential Proclamation --

National Stalking Awareness Month

2012

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

In our schools and in our neighborhoods, at home and in workplaces across our Nation, stalking endangers the physical and emotional well being of millions of American men and women every year. Too often, stalking goes unreported and unaddressed, and we must take action against this unacceptable abuse. This month, we stand with all those who have been affected by stalking and strengthen our resolve to prevent this crime before it occurs.

Stalkers inspire fear through intimidation, explicit or implied threats, and nonconsensual communication often by telephone, text message, or email that can cause severe emotional and physical distress. Many victims suffer anxiety attacks, feelings of anger or helplessness, and depression. Fearing for their safety, some are forced to relocate or change jobs to protect themselves. And, tragically, stalking can be a precursor to more violent offenses, including sexual assault and homicide. The consequences of this crime are real, and they take a profound and ongoing toll on men, women, teens, and children across our country.

Despite the dangerous reality of stalking, public awareness and legal responses to this crime remain limited. New data show that one in six women and one in 19 men have experienced stalking that caused them to be very fearful or feel that they or someone close to them were in immediate physical danger. Among men and women alike, victims are most commonly stalked by current or former intimate partners, and young adults are at the highest risk for stalking victimization. Though stalking can occur in any community, shame, fear of retribution, or concerns that they will not be supported lead many victims to forego reporting the crime to the police. As we strive to reverse this trend, we must do more to promote public awareness and support for survivors of stalking.

My Administration is working to advance protection and services for stalking victims, empower survivors to break the cycle of abuse, and bring an end to violence against women and men. With unprecedented coordination between Federal agencies, we are promoting new tools to decrease the incidence of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking, and we are taking action to ensure perpetrators are held accountable. To reinforce these efforts, advocates, law enforcement officials, and others who work with victims must continue to improve their capacity to respond with swift and comprehensive action. From raising awareness to pursuing criminal justice, all of us have a role to play in stopping this senseless and harmful behavior.

This month, let us come together to prevent abuse, violence, and harassment in all their forms and renew our commitment to bring care and support to those in need.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 2012 as National Stalking Awareness Month. I call on all Americans to learn to recognize the signs of stalking, acknowledge stalking as a serious crime, and urge those impacted not to be afraid to speak out or ask for help. Let us also resolve to support victims and survivors, and to create communities that are secure and supportive for all Americans.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty eighth day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

VAWA Reauthorization 2012

2012-01-03T09:47:00.000-08:00

2012 is THE year to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

On November 30, 2011, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Pat Leahy (D-Vermont) and Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). No action has been taken since the bill was introduced, but we hope the 2012 will be the year that VAWA will be reauthorized.

There needs to be discussion about the proposed changes. The bill includes such things as the creation of a sexual assault clearinghouse for American Indian and Alaskan Native women. Many of the changes are fiscal in nature, including an increase in funding for Legal Assistance for Victims to allow for a greater number of projects and to address the shortage of legal aid available to victims.

Another proposed change for programs receiving VAWA money is to have it be matched by non-federal dollars. While it is important to encourage these programs and services to secure funding from many sources, requiring MANDATORY matching funds before an organization or service provider can receive support from VAWA is a hurdle/roadblock that VAWA sponsors never intended to erect. We know how devastating a match requirement would be on many programs and services, especially with emerging programs and those in small and low income communities. We know how devastating a match requirement would be on programs and we need to tell our representatives in Congress about the very real – and negative – impact that match requirements will have!

(from National Task Force to End Sexual and Domestic Violence Against Women)

Please encourage your representative in Congress to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

Donation Item Requests

2011-12-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

Looking to help out Transitions, but you're not sure how? Below is a list of some much-needed items for the shelters:

New infant car seat

3 blow dryers that can be attached to a wall

Single and Full sized blankets, comforters, and sheets

Towels, washcloths

Dishrags

Disinfecting Wipes

Call the administration office, at 523-1134, to schedule a donation drop off or pick up. Thank you!

"Averie Clark: cool blue" Performance Benefits Transitions

2011-12-15T06:22:00.000-08:00

Come to the Bull Run Inn on Tuesday, December 27th (tentatively 8-11PM) and support Averie Clark: cool blue, and Transitions!

Averie Clark: cool blue is well known in the greater Susquehanna River valley for performances that connect with a variety of audiences. Fueled by the amazing musicicanship of Don Krech, guitar(s), Bill Flack, bass, Steve Mitchell, drums, and Tom Martin, harmonica, Averie's intuitive stylings channel the essence of each tune, offering inspired interpretations of songs from the 1890's to today. The performance benefits Transitions as Averie's tribute to her dear friend who was a victim of a domestic murder suicide. This December they would've been celebrating their 50th birthdays together.

Transitions Welcomes a new Education Outreach Specialist/Counseling Intern

2011-12-13T10:39:00.000-08:00

Transitions welcomes Beverly as our new Education Outreach Specialist/Counseling Intern. Beverly comes to us from Rhinebeck, NY where she spent the last six months volunteering for a Holistic resort focused on helping people become more consciously aware, and promoting service as a basic function to bringing support to our world. Beverly received her BA from Georgia State University in Journalism, and worked for CNN in Atlanta as a video journalist. Following this, she received her teaching certificate for the state of Georgia and taught video production to High School students. She has a passion for inspiring others and believes that working with youth is a good place to start.

Beverly will receive her MA as a Licensed Professional Counselor in May 2012 from Liberty University. She has focused on family therapy, and believes that family is the foundation of society, in all its various forms. Additionally, she is a relationship coach and mentors men with relational questions and issues, as well as helping them to be comfortable in their own unique masculinity. She also coaches women in the same aspects, whilst sharing the common bond of feminine understanding.

Beverly looks forward to helping the people of this area to better communicate so that they may know the richness of a healthy relationship. She is teaching this in local schools as part of our outreach for students to recognize domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and bullying. She believes that communication is vital for the strength of one person and all of society together.

PA Liquor Control Board Suggests Victims Can "Control Tonight" (and Rapists)

2011-12-09T11:37:00.001-08:00

This week, there was an outcry based upon ads from thePennsylvania Liquor Control Board, encouraging people to “Control Tonight.” There have been many articles and arguments aboutthe victim-blaming that the PLCB engaged in. I believe many of these writers are more eloquent than I, and encourageyou to read those articles.

However, I wanted to add my voice because of the anger thatI experienced when I visited www.controltonight.com. Upon entrance to the website, you are takento an interactive scenario, starting with the “end” of the night, specifically, theconsequences that the individual or friend faced due to imbibing. This screen said: "Sexual Assault: That’s what Anne’s attorney will call it a month from now. She said no, but he kept going. And now, your friend is on his bathroom floor, bruised and victimized.”

The website allows the user to “See how you could haveprevented this.” As a diligent web-browser,I clicked this button, which took me to what happened earlier that night. It took me to 7:45 pm, saying: “Redheaded Slut: It’s the drink special on the blackboard at tonight’s happy hour. Delicious! You and Gina order another round. It’s the perfect way to start a little innocent fun after a hard day.”

I was floored. I would think that the Pennsylvania LiquorControl Board would have many people available who are familiar with a widerange of liquor-based drinks. Why theyfelt it necessary to use a drink named to shame women and girls is notsomething I can understand. I am pleasedto report that they pulled both the ad and the interactive scenario, however,this is an opportunity that illustrates there is more advocacy to be done. Victim blaming still exists, and victims of sexual assault need to be told:

It is not your fault.

Protected Innocence Project - Pennsylvania Fails!

2011-12-02T08:19:00.001-08:00

Shared Hope International has recently completed a project calledProtected Innocence, based on research performed by Shared Hope Internationaland compiled in “The National Report on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking.” This project gives grades to states for theirresponse to domestic minor sex trafficking, as well as providing suggestionsfor policy changes. The Federal Trafficking VictimsProtection Act (TVPA) has made sex trafficking of a minor a crime. Federal law defines sex trafficking as the“recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a personfor the purpose of a commercial sex act.”

When considering the crimeof domestic minor sex trafficking, under the TVPA, the victim’s age is thecritical issue—there is no requirement to prove that force, fraud, or coercionwas used to secure the victim’s actions if the victim is a minor. This is key because many minor sextraffickers do not need to use force or coercion. The victims they target may be vulnerable,due to a variety of factors, including previous victimization, lack of parentalinvolvement, or addiction. Thetraffickers need only promise a better life than the one they are living toensnare victims.

There are an estimated100,000 American juveniles that are victimized through prostitution per year.

One of the barriers thatmany organizations are looking to overcome is the labeling of minors engagingin prostitution as criminals. They arebeing prosecuted as if they had a choice to engage in this lifestyle. Victims of domestic minor sex traffickingoften end up in juvenile detention centers or runaway youth shelters, wherethey are not exposed to the type of counseling and treatment that theyrequire. When minor sexual assault victimsare treated as criminals, it enforces their trafficker’s lie that no one cares about what happens to them.

To be specific, often thetraffickers are what is commonly referred to as a pimp. These individuals may manipulate minorvictims into thinking they have a relationship. This person might be the only individual who has consistently providedfood, shelter, or attention to the minor. This is another barrier for law enforcement and for organizationslooking to help victims of domestic minor sex trafficking.

The Protected Innocence Project gave Pennsylvania a grade of 55.5out of a possible 100, with a letter grade of F. Pennsylvania does have a law prohibiting humantrafficking, but it does not include the crime of trafficking adults or minorsfor commercial sex acts. The commercialsexual exploitation of children law does not identify victims as traffickedvictims. The law covers promotingprostitution of a minor, hiring a minor to engage in a sexual performance, andunlawful contact with a minor for prostitution offenses. The law that applies to patronizing aprostitute does not differentiate between a minor and an adult prostitute. Unlawful contact with a minor forprostitution is a third degree felony and currently has a maximum sentence of 7years.

Read the full report here.

World AIDS Day 2011

2011-12-01T07:29:00.001-08:00

According to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, atthe end of 2010, 34 million people worldwide are living with HIV. Globally, the percentage of women living withHIV has held steady at 50%, but in sub-Saharan Africa, the percentage is59%.

On December 1^st, World AIDS Day, we at Transitionswould like to remind you of the intersection of HIV/AIDS infection and violenceagainst women and girls. Due to thebiology of their genitalia, females are twice as likely as males to contractHIV from unprotected heterosexual intercourse. There are a great many situations, both domestically and abroad, wherewomen and girls do not have the power to negotiate safe sex practices or torefuse sex.

Women who are victims of sexual violence are at an increased riskof HIV exposure. They do not havecontrol over a nonconsensual sexual encounter. Whether the perpetrator uses a condom or not, what type of intercoursethey engage in, who the perpetrator is—these are all decisions that the victimcannot make. The nature of rape, and therealities of the aftermath are also difficult for victims to face. When victims come to the Emergency Room aftera rape, the SANE nurses conduct an HIV test. The most commonly given HIV test is actually an HIV Antibody Test. These antibodies can take approximatelybetween 6 weeks to three months develop. In order for a victim of sexual violence to be accurately screened, shemust return to a medical facility in 3 months to be tested again for HIV. This presents a problem for many sexualviolence victims. They often want to putthe assault behind them and move on with their lives. Having to get an HIV test can feel like theperpetrator still has the power to affect them for the rest of their lives.

A study done in South Africa has found that women who have violentor controlling male partners are at a higher risk for HIV infection. This is due to abusive men being more likelyto engage in risky sexual practices. These men are also more likely to be infected with HIV themselves. Often, women who must think of their safetyfirst are not able to effectively negotiate sexual practices due to fear. Some of the risky sexual practices includehaving unprotected sex and having sexual encounters with multiple partners. The female partners often do not have the powerwithin their relationship to demand monogamy from their male partners, althoughmonogamy is expected from the female partner. Another study done in India had similar findings that women who arevictims of intimate partner violence are at greater risk for HIVinfection. This is a result of the higherinfection levels of abusive men and the increased rate of HIV transmission inabusive relationships.

A conversation about HIV/AIDS and violence against women would beamiss without mentioning the use of rape in war. Where armed conflict is prevalent, there havebeen many reports of rape being used as a weapon of war. Accordingto Amnesty International, in every armed conflictbetween 1999 and 2000 they investigated, the torture of women was reported. In Rwanda,the sexual violence that occurred during the genocide is thought to have causedtheir country’s HIV/AIDS Epidemic. It isestimated that a half million girls and women were raped and that 67 per centof them became infected with HIV.

Although HIV/AIDS is not in the headlines, as it once was, pleaseremember there are still people suffering, struggling to combat a disease thatthey had no choice in contracting.

Proposed Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Legislation

2011-11-30T10:28:00.001-08:00

Message from PCAR:

Representative Dan Deasy has introduced legislation (HB 1999) thatwould require an individual who witnesses or an individual who is told by adirect witness about a sexual crime against a child to report it to lawenforcement. Failure to report could result in a third degree felonycharge (currently the failure to report is a misdemeanor).

See Rep. Deasy's webpage for the news release: http://www.pahouse.com/PR/027110911.asp

Forensic Nurses Week

2011-11-10T10:31:00.000-08:00

“Forensic Nurses play an integral role in bridging the gap between law and medicine. They should be in each and every emergency room"

-Joseph Biden, Vice President, United States from Forensic Nursing: a Handbook for Practice

Pictured: Darlene Rowe, Director of Emergency Medicine; Lindsey Biddle, Critical Care Instructor and SANE nurse; and Tara R., Medical/Legal Advocate

On November 9, 2011, Transitions was pleased to present the forensic nurses at Evangelical Hospital with a plaque and a bouquet of flowers in honor of Forensic Nurses Week.

Evangelical Hospital is the only medical facility in Snyder, Union, and Northumberland counties where there is a SANE program. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners practice a form of forensic nursing. There are currently three nurses, Hannah, Lindsey, and Rachel, who, in addition to their regular duties, perform on-call duties, coming into the hospital whenever a sexual violence victim is admitted. They give their time and energy in a way that many others would not. They comfort victims, provide medical attention, explain medication and provide much needed cooperation and advocacy with the police.

Without this valuable resource, many sexual violence cases would not be successfully prosecuted. Forensic nurses are charged with identifying and documenting both internal and external injuries, properly collecting and storing biological and physical evidence, providing expert testimony during court cases and interfacing with law enforcement and attorneys. SANE nurses care for the physical, psychological, and social trauma that occurs in patients who have been assaulted or abused.

We at Transitions are so very grateful to the SANE Program, and specifically those skilled SANE nurses, at Evangelical Hospital for their gracious giving of themselves to victims who so greatly need their services.

Senator Bob Casey Supports the SAFE Teen Act

2011-11-09T06:37:00.000-08:00

Senator Bob Casey has become a co-sponsor of The Stop Abuse for Every Teen Act (S. 1447), which will increase federal funding for prevention and education programs and support practices to test prevention models. As reported by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:

1 in 11 teens reports being a victim of physical dating violence each year.

1 in 4 reports verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual violence each year.

Approximately 8% of boys and 9% of girls have been to the emergency room for an injury received from dating violence.

These statistics are staggering and a change needs to happen. The SAFE Teen Act will add on to an existing program, the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities program, to include dating violence. Many teens live with the devastating effects of dating violence and feel it is okay. Let’s provide them with the tools to see the differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships. Education is the best path toward prevention.

Take a stand and show your support for the SAFE Teen Act by contacting your Senators and Representatives asking them to show their support!

Written by Tiffany C.

Secure Sick Days for Victims of Violence!

2011-11-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

Recently, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (D-CA) reintroduced a critical piece of legislation that would change this dire situation. H.R. 3151, the Domestic Violence Leave Act, updates current law to allow workers recovering from domestic abuse, sexual assault and stalking to take unpaid sick days to seek medical attention, legal assistance, and counseling during work hours. I urge you to contact your Member of Congress to pass the Domestic Violence Leave Act today.

October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month just ended but violence against women and girls occurs every day of the year. In tough economic times, when the frequency of violence increases, victims without unpaid sick days must make a sobering choice between financial security and personal health.

According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, victims of intimate partner violence lose 8 million days of work every year- which amounts to 32,000 full-time jobs. Please contact your Member of Congress today to ensure that women recovering from domestic violence can lead financially stable and healthy lives.

(Content from Lori Weinstein, Executive Director of Jewish Women International)

Why Can't I get a PFA?

2011-11-02T06:49:00.000-07:00

Pennsylvania citizens look to the law for lots of reasons. Most of the time, when people call our hotline, they are exasperated. They have already tried to stop the abuse on their own; they’ve talked to friends, neighbors, colleagues, and sometimes even court personnel looking for answers.

“My roommate flipped out yesterday and came at me!”
“The grandfather of my baby keeps calling me and won’t stop.”
“My neighbor has started harassing me and my children.”
“My rapist moved into my neighborhood and tried to talk to me.”

What can they do? Often, people in the above situations are referred to get a PFA (Protection From Abuse order). These people are met with disappointment. Protection from Abuse orders can only be filed by people who are related by consanguinity (blood) or affinity (marriage), current or former sexual or intimate partners (have or had a dating relationship), persons who share biological parenthood, or current or former spouses or people who lived as spouses. This leaves a great number of people unable to file for relief from abuse. None of the situations above would allow for a Protection from Abuse order, because the relationships do not fall under the PFA act. Even though you may be roommates or neighbors with someone, unless they are a past or former dating partner, you cannot file for a PFA. In recent history, there has an increase in paramours having children, but not getting married. This means that the parents of your paramour may have a legal connection to their grandchild, but they have no legal connection to you, at least in the eyes of the PFA Act.

One of the most disturbing lapses in the Protection from Abuse law is that someone cannot file for protection from their rapist unless they had a past relationship. Pennsylvania lawmakers are trying to change that. Senate Bill 58, which was referred to the Judiciary Committee on May 3, 2011, does just that. It offers protection orders to those who are victims of sexual violence, as defined by the crime codes relating to harassment, sexual offenses, and open lewdness. Sexual violence victim protection orders would allow for no contact with the victim, including third party contact, no stalking or harassment; and “any other appropriate relief requested by the plaintiff.” This act does not allow for eviction, custody, or financial support, as the current PFA act does.

There is another gap in what people think PFA’s do and what relief they can actually provide. In Pennsylvania, there is no distance away that someone has to stay due to a Protection from Abuse order. The relief that can be granted is that the defendant shall not stalk, abuse, threaten or harass the victim, and no contact from the Defendant. The “no contact” provision states that there should be no contact at plaintiff's school, business, or place of employment. If read carefully, this does not say that the person cannot be present at the plaintiff’s school, etc., only that they may not contact the plaintiff. We have been lucky enough in the counties we serve (Northumberland, Snyder, Union) that some judges have prohibited the defendant from the plaintiff’s workplace, especially in cases when the plaintiff often works alone. This type of relief is up to the judge hearing the case, and cannot be relied upon for every case.

Protection from Abuse orders are a useful tool in a victim’s safety plan, but they cannot be the only strategy. Even when PFA’s are granted, they are still only a piece of paper and only as good as the people who can enforce them. Many people who greatly need the protection from abuse cannot currently receive it. If you or someone you know is in a situation where they cannot file for a PFA, please encourage them to call Transitions (Hotline: 1-800-850-7948) and speak to a trained advocate about creating and implementing a safety plan.

Take Action During PA Bullying Awareness Month: Urge State Reps to Vote YES on SB 850!

2011-10-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

Please see this urgent message from the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape:

In light of alarming statistics related to physical and emotional bullying, the Pennsylvania Senate has marked October 2011 as "Bullying Awareness Month," encouraging schools and parents to talk with youth about bullying—and in particular, cyberbullying. Often characterized as harmless by youth who don't have to interact with their peers on a face-to-face basis, cyberbullying can cause as much emotional pain and trauma as its physical counterpart.

PA Senator Stewart Greenleaf (R-12) proposes to address cyberbullying through Senate Bill 850, which would assure that youth who engage in intentionally harmful behavior toward their peers receive court intervention and that youth who are victims of cyberbullying are not criminalized, thereby sparing them from further emotional harm.

Conversely, House Bill 815—which Juvenile Law Center opposes, and which is in the Senate Judiciary Committee—creates no distinction between an individual who is victimized by cybercrime and someone who shares electronic images with the intent to coerce or harm another individual.

Senate Bill 850 passed unanimously in the PA Senate on October 19 and is now in the House Judiciary Committee for consideration. Juvenile Law Center worked with legislators to ensure the passage of this important bill. It not only aims to protect victims of cyberbullying, but would also ensure that juvenile defendants have attorneys in court and, upon conviction, are placed in the least restrictive environment that meets their needs.

Juvenile Law Center commends Senator Greenleaf for taking a stand to protect children and encourages you to call your Representative and urge him or her to vote YES on SB 850. To find out who your Representative is and how to contact him or her, click here.

For more information on SB 850, click here.