Kirk a leader in protecting women

Violence against women continues to be a serious problem in this country. Every year thousands of women and their children face the worst sort of abuse. In 1994, Congress responded to this serious problem by passing the Violence Against Women Act. It established federal programs to prosecute abusers, prevent domestic violence before it starts and provide victims' services. It proved wildly successful and spent nearly $4 billion to combat domestic violence.

When the Violence Against Women Act was up for renewal in 2005, Congressman Mark Kirk stepped up to the plate. He was an original co-sponsor of the renewal bill and worked tirelessly with his colleagues until it was signed into law in 2006. Congressman Kirk performed his part in the struggle to end violence against women admirably. I plan to do my part and vote to send him back to Washington.

Sidney Retsky

Highland Park