Blumenthal Statement On White House Council Of Women And Girls Report On Rape And Sexual Assault

Press Release

Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued a statement in response to the release of a White House Council on Women and Girls' report that analyzed the most recent data on rape and sexual assault in America. The report studied which populations are most at risk, the cost of assault on survivors and communities, as well as the criminal justice system's response to the problem, and it concludes with next steps the Administration can take to further prevent the incidence of rape and sexual assault.

"I applaud the President's heightened call to action -- and his determination to use existing authority through Executive Order and other action. The President recognizes that sexual violence is not a women's issue; it is a societal issue. Particularly significant in this call to action is engaging men as "influencers' of other men -- role models leading by example to discourage and deter sexual assault and violence. My experience as Attorney General of Connecticut was that engaging men can work as a powerful weapon by providing positive role models for other men, particularly teens.

"I welcome, as well, the focus on boys and men as victims and survivors -- a tragic and treacherous fact. I look forward to supporting the President's strong action when his task force reports back in 90 days. While law enforcement must be improved, society as a whole, including federal agencies, can lead by example -- including continuing efforts to strengthen efforts against sexual assault in the military."

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