Proclamation 9337-National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2015
Issued 2015-09-30 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama issued this proclamation in September 2015 to designate October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The proclamation draws attention to the scope of domestic violence in America, noting that nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men in the United States have suffered severe physical violence by an intimate partner. It highlights that victims face not only physical harm but also financial insecurity, and that children who witness domestic violence often experience lifelong trauma.
The proclamation discusses existing laws and programs aimed at helping victims, including the Violence Against Women Act and the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act. It describes administrative actions taken during the Obama presidency, such as extending protections to Native American and immigrant communities, requiring health plans to cover domestic violence screening and counseling under the Affordable Care Act, and establishing paid sick leave for federal contractors that can be used for absences resulting from domestic violence.
This is a ceremonial proclamation that raises public awareness but does not create new laws or impose legal requirements on citizens. It expresses the President's call for continued efforts to prevent domestic violence and support victims across all communities. The proclamation falls within the longstanding presidential tradition of issuing such observances.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9337-National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to domestic violence. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Barack Obama, 2015 Proclamation 9337—National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2015 September 30, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Domestic violence impacts women, men, and children of every age, background, and belief. Nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men in the United States have suffered severe physical violence by an intimate partner. Victims are deprived of their autonomy, liberty, and security, and face tremendous threats to their health and safety. During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we reaffirm our dedication to forging an America where no one suffers the hurt and hardship that domestic violence causes—and we recommit to doing everything in our power to uphold the basic human right to be free from violence and abuse. While physical marks may often be the most obvious signs of the harm caused by domestic violence, the true extent of the pain goes much deeper. Victims not only face abuse, but often find themselves left with significant financial insecurity. And children who witness domestic violence often experience lifelong trauma. These heinous acts go against all we know to be humane and decent, and they insult our most fundamental ideals. We all have a responsibility to t