Navajo Nation First Lady Supports 'Violence Against Family Act'

To Walk in 'Stop the Violence Against Women Day'

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

Navajo Nation

WINDOW ROCK, ARIZONA - In collaboration with the Navajo Nation Advisory Council Against Domestic Violence, First Lady Martha Shelly announced today she supports the Violence Against Family Act (Act) and will join the 'Stop the Violence Against Women Day' walk and other events on Wednesday.

"We have been actively working on the Violence Against Family Act, which has been in development for the past ten years and we are confident it will be passed by the Navajo Nation Council," said First Lady Shelly.

“I encourage everyone to come out and join us to advocate for the rights of victims and families of domestic violence.”

According to the Act, it will provide for the safety and protection of family members from violence. The criminal justice system shall respond to family members with fairness, compassion and in a prompt and effective manner.

“…Family violence is contrary to the traditional Navajo way of life and is a violation of fundamental human rights.”

The initial core group of the Navajo Nation Advisory Council Against Domestic Violence comprises of members from the Division of Social Services; Battered Families and Home Shelter staff from Shiprock, Kayenta and Crownpoint; Judicial Branch; Window Rock Police Department; and the Public Defender's Office.

First Lady Shelly and supporters will present the Violence Against Family Act to Navajo Nation Council Delegates Katherine Benally and Joshua Lavar Butler.

posted July 20, 2011 6:50 am edt