PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 11, 2024
2700 N. Central Ave, Suite 1100
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-279-2900 / 1-800-782-6400
media@acesdv.org
Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV) Responds to Grants Pass Decision
The Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV) expresses profound disappointment and concern over the Supreme Court’s decision in City of Grants Pass, Ore. v. Johnson, which allows states and localities to criminalize homelessness. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness for women and their children. This ruling exacerbates an already dire situation, punishing individuals for their lack of housing and further entrenching cycles of poverty and vulnerability.
ACESDV has long advocated for comprehensive and compassionate support systems for survivors, including access to safe housing. In this year, ACESDV opposed five legislative attempts in Arizona that would harm survivors to criminalize homelessness, place those experiencing homelessness in concentration camps, or prohibit placing the unhoused in hotels. With the Grants Pass decision, it is increasingly important that we advocate to protect survivors from consequences of poor legislation. Housing for survivors of gender-based violence is critically limited, often forcing them into impossible decisions between sleeping outside or enduring continued abuse. According to the 2023 annual NNEDV Domestic Violence Counts Report, in Arizona, approximately 83% of domestic violence survivors’ requests for housing went unmet due to lack of resources.
Earlier this year, ACESDV joined other 74 other advocacy groups in supporting an amicus brief with the Supreme Court, urging recognition of the rights of homeless individuals, including survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, in City of Grants Pass, Ore. v. Johnson. Justice Sotomayor, joined by Justices Kagan and Jackson in her dissenting opinion, highlighted the brief, acknowledging that survivors often become homeless due to circumstances beyond their control. This ruling disregards these harsh realities and undermines the safety and dignity of the most vulnerable.
In light of this distressing development, we urgently call upon our community, supporters, and allies to stand with us in solidarity. Your donations are more crucial than ever as we strive to continue providing essential services and advocacy for survivors across Arizona. Together, we can work to mitigate the harmful impacts of this decision and ensure that every survivor receives the care and support they deserve.
Please consider donating to ACESDV today. Your contribution will directly aid our efforts to advocate for survivor rights, protect shelter and housing for survivors, and foster a safer, more just society. To donate, please visit www.acesdv.org/donate.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to ending sexual and domestic violence.
In solidarity,
Jenna Panas
CEO
Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV)
www.acesdv.org
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About the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence
The Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV) works to dismantle oppression and promote equity among all people, focusing on increasing public awareness about sexual and domestic violence and enhancing safety and services for survivors. ACESDV was originally founded as the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence in 1980, so that concerned citizens and professionals could unite in a statewide organization to end domestic violence. In 2013, the coalition became the designated dual coalition to address both sexual and domestic violence in Arizona, thus becoming the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence. ACESDV provides training and technical assistance to responders, service providers, and community members, engages in public policy advocacy and public awareness initiatives, and provides direct services through the Arizona Sexual and Domestic Violence Helpline. To learn more visit www.acesdv.org and www. arizonasurvivors.org.
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