Violence against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 and Sexual Violence on Tribal Land: A Policy Analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to provide a policy analysis of the Violence Against Women's Reauthorization Act of 2013. Specific emphasis was placed on the prevalence of sexual violence within AI/AN communities and how the legislative act provides protection for people experiencing domestic violence, dating violence, or the violation of protective orders. Specifically, this thesis used David Gil's analytic framework to evaluate the policy; its strengths and limitations, and its impact on tribal sovereignty and tribal criminal jurisdiction. The analysis shows that while VAWA 2013 has worked to restore tribal sovereignty and prevent the act of domestic violence within tribal nations, it has not gone far enough in addressing sexual violence amongst AI/AN women. As a result of discussing these issues, the project demonstrates the importance of addressing the human rights of AI/AN women living on tribal land. Implications for social work are discussed.