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REMARKS OF THE FIRST LADY
BENEFIT LUNCHEON OF MOTHERS AGAINST VIOLENCE IN AMERICA
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
JUNE 24, 1996
It's always a pleasure to be in Seattle, but even more so
for an occasion such as this one.
Back in 1994, I met with my friend Pam Eakes, along with
several founding members of Mothers Against Violence in America
and mothers whose children were victims of crime. I came away
from that meeting so encouraged. Here were women who, despite
their heavy hearts, were determined to create a world in which
others would not suffer at the hand of senseless and often random
acts. Unselfishly, courageously and intelligently they looked
beyond their personal suffering for the greater good of us all.
Today, in just three years, MAVIA [Mah-vee-ah] is a grassroots
leader creating partnerships of peace among families,
communities, law enforcement, businesses, schools and local
government agencies around the nation.
We know that innovative partnerships can yield some of the
most effective strategies for reducing crime and violence. Many
of you are aware of Seattle's Partners against Youth Gun
Violence. Fondly known as "Cops and Docs," it teaches middle
school children about the trauma of gunshot wounds and their
dangers. I can't help but think that these kinds of programs
have contributed to the 41 percent drop in incidents involving
firearms in Washington public schools.
These encouraging statistics are not surprising because
Washington has a history of leading the rest of the nation with
innovative efforts to reduce crime and violence. Perhaps there
is something in the coffee you love so much. Or perhaps it is
because you are blessed with outstanding leaders like Patty
Murray, Alene Moris, Pam Eakes, Police Chief Norm Stamper, and
the young people we recognize here today.
I wish -- I just wish -- every child in America could grow
up today with the sense of personal security that I, and many of
you, had when we were kids.
I was raised in a typical middle class suburb of Chicago. My
brothers and I rode our bikes everywhere -- to the library, to
the movie theater, to the shops, to restaurants. Sometimes we
would leave at 9 in the morning and come back at 6, just in time
for dinner. Our parents seldom had to worry about us. If they
couldn't find us, they'd call a neighbor who likely knew where we
1
were. 0
Not that we were under the illusion that the world was
entirely safe. We were under strict instructions never to get in
a stranger's car. Remembering this admonition, my brother Hugh
once declined a ride from a policeman in his patrol car who
wanted to drive him home one day.
By the time my daughter was growing up, that sense of
security was beginning to vanish. I remember one warm spring
afternoon when Chelsea was about nine, she and a friend were
riding their bikes around the governor's mansion in Little Rock.
They came inside to ask if they could bike to the public library
ten blocks away. I had made many trips to my local library at
their age, unaccompanied and unafraid. Tears welled up in my
eyes as I told my daughter no. I just didn't feel it was safe. So
I put down what I was doing and gave them a ride.
I'm not suggesting that we can recreate the past. We can't.
But we can build a society in which values -- civility, decency,
respect for human life and individuality -- prevail again. And we
also can do something about social problems that are the root of
so many violent crimes.
Earlier today, I was in Nashville with the President for the
annual family conference hosted by Vice President and Mrs. Gore.
Over the past few years, the conference has helped political
leaders, policy makers, advocates and everyday citizens think of
new strategies for strengthening families. And one particular
focus has been the negative influences of the mass media, an
issue that Tipper Gore has been a leader on for almost two
decades.
I think this subject has great relevance to all of you in
this room. Since the 1950's, a steady stream of articles, books,
and studies have documented the harm television does to children.
The American Psychological Association's Commission on Violence
and Youth concluded that "viewing violence increases violence"
and "prolonged viewing of media violence can lead to emotional
desensitization toward violence."
Television is a fact of life. With hundreds of channels
available 24 hours a day, our children are just one click of the
remote control button away from images that of violence,
gratuitous sex, and a glorification of dysfunctional behavior.
That is why I commend MAVIA's efforts to discourage violent
programming and messages through your "Speak-Up" resource
handbook for parents and last year's conference on media
violence.
2
On this issue, the President is behind you 100 percent.
Earlier this year, he met with executives from the media and
entertainment industry and announced a breakthrough agreement to
develop a voluntary ratings system that, along with the V-Chip,
will help parents protect their children from violence and adult
content on TV.
More recently, he announced that he is inviting the leaders
of the television networks and the nation's pre-eminent
children's programming experts to come to the White House to
discuss ways to improve the quality and quantity of children's
programming. And, we are hopeful that the FCC will soon agree to
a proposed rule requiring every television station to air three
hours of children's programming per week.
Clearly, it is up to parents to exercise more responsibility
when it comes to what their children watch on television. But as
parents we must also demand that the media executives who produce
and broadcast violent programming take more responsibility
themselves.
As far as I'm concerned, shows like the "Mighty Morphin
Power Rangers" have no place on any listing of children's shows.
There is no excuse for a program that depicts hundreds of acts of
violence in each episode and teaches children that the best -- in
fact the only -- way to resolve conflict is through violence. As
one expert said of the "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers," the show
is "devoid of any enriching value. It is one of the most violent
programs on television today.
Even a 10-year-old boy who participated in a roundtable we
had last year about television violence told me that his
playmates "just pretend they are Mighty Morphin Power Rangers the
X-Men and then they'll just go around pretending they're killing
each other or such things and think nothing of it."
Now I'm not against businesses making a profit. And I'm not
against freedom of creative expression. But at some point, media
executives need to ask themselves whether they are subverting
values for the bottom line. You can still make money without
harming children. And it is time for our media executives to take
greater responsibility and show more accountability for the
enormous power they wield in our children's lives.
Although we remember today the lives lost and damaged by
crime, we must recognize how far we've come -- and how much we
have accomplished in reducing crime and assisting crime victims.
First and foremost, the crime rate has been down for the
past three years.
3
Second, crime victims' rights are no longer a novel idea.
Victim Assistance programs, which were few in number in the late
1960's and generally served rape victims and battered women, now
number in the thousands and serve all types of crime victims.
Twenty years ago there were few victim compensation
programs. Today, every state has a program to help reimburse
victims for mental health, medical, funeral and other expenses.
Today we have a Crime Victims Fund -- money from federal criminal
offenders -- which has provided over $1 billion to crime victims
programs in the past decade and $5.4 million to Washington in
this fiscal year.
But in a sea of statistics the one that encourages me the
most is this one: since the passage of the Brady Bill, 60,000
felons, fugitives and stalkers have not been able to buy
handguns. It proves that we can do something about the
unacceptable level of crime and violence in our communities.
The President has sought to make our streets safer, to
strengthen our families and communities, and to stem the tide of
violence: The Brady Bill, the Assault Weapons Ban, the Violent
Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, the Violence Against Women
Act, the Safe and Drug-Free School Act, the Domestic Violence
Hotline, the Anti-Terrorism Bill, and the one-strike crime
initiative, to return the rule of law to public housing.
He has proposed the National Gang Tracking Network and Anti-
Gang and Youth Violence Control Act to make the juvenile justice
system tougher and smarter and to help our young people stay
drug-free and away from guns and gangs.
And last month, the President signed Megan's Law. There is
no greater right than a parent's right to raise a child in safety
and love. With the signing of Megan's Law, every state in the
country will be required to tell a community when a dangerous
sexual predator enters its midst. Building on that, the
President has asked the Attorney General to come up with a plan
that will enable police officers in every state to share
information and track sex offenders nationwide.
Many of these laws and initiatives were the result of
effective anti-crime advocates -- survivors of violent crime who
were able to turn their pain and anger into power and action,
much like Mothers Against Violence in America.
You are making a difference. You are helping bring peace and
security to millions of families across our country. And we are
eternally grateful for your efforts.
Thank you all very much. And godspeed.
4
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002
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
Office for Victims of Crime
Washington, D.C. 20531
MEMORANDUM TO:
Sabrina Corlette
21 JUN ----
Office of the First Lady
FROM:
Director
Aileen Adams a
SUBJECT:
Additional Youth Violence Prevention Programs
As promised on Wednesday, the following are seven examples of youth violence
programs that draw upon a variety of community entities and partnerships. No one unit of
government, no one person, and no one program can prevent youth violence. There is and
must be a role for everyone. The partners in the effort to prevent youth violence include
parents, traditional programs like those offered by the Boys and Girls Clubs, national groups
like the National Crime Prevention Council, teachers, coaches, crime victims, and youth
themselves. All of these programs have been cited in "Combating Violence and Delinquency:
The National Juvenile Justice Action Plan, published this year by the Coordinating Council on
Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.
Seven youth violence prevention programs, categorized by their sponsors, include:
1)
Community based organizations: The Boys and Girls Clubs of America have
comprehensive strategies to help their members build self-esteem, acquire honest values, and
pursue productive futures in more than 200 clubs, reaching tens of thousands of young people.
These clubs also work specifically to prevent gang involvement. Supported in part by federal
funding, these clubs have developed partnerships with corporations, private foundations,
individuals, and government agencies. According to a 1992 Columbia University study, Boys
and Girls Clubs have been effective in increasing rates of school attendance and improving
academic performance. In addition, clubs in public housing projects have contributed to a 13
percent reduction in the juvenile crime rate.
2)
Government, community, law enforcement, victims, and gang members: The
Gang Violence Reduction Project in East Los Angeles, sponsored by the California Youth
Authority, is a gang violence effort that enlists the participation of parents and kids in ten
Latino neighborhoods of Southern California. The program is staffed by a few professional
people, ten former gang members from different youth gangs, and many mothers, fathers, and
young people who volunteer to help with the Mothers and Daughters group, the Fathers and
Sons group, the literacy and tutoring program, and other "alternatives" to gang membership
activities. The program tries to expose the kids in gang-infested communities to non-violent
life experiences, such as going to museums, to sporting events, to exhibits, and even to the
06/21/96 FRI 11:24 FAX 202 514 6383
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003
legislature to watch government in action. Many of the volunteers are the survivors of gang
violence or the family members of gang related homicide victims. These volunteers also
spend their time talking with students in local elementary and junior high schools, and in the
county and state detention facilities to encourage them to avoid gang violence.
3)
National organizations and schools: The National Crime Prevention Council
(NCPC) and the National Institute for Citizen Education efforts entitled "Teens Crime and the
Community" and "We Can Work It Out", promote mediation, negotiation, or other non-
litigating methods as strategies to settle unresolved confrontations. The programs emphasize
the importance of showing students that many problems can be solved more effectively
through cooperative methods, such as peer mediation. In this curriculum integration approach,
teachers deliver daily lessons in conflict resolution and infuse conflict resolution concepts and
skills into core curriculum areas. The NCPC "Teens, Crime and the Community" program
also provides ways for young people to contribute to their community instead of destroying it.
4)
Schools: In New York, the Resolving Conflict Creatively Program (RCCP) is
implemented as a peaceable schools model of conflict resolution. The RCCP approach
requires schools to participate in the curriculum for a year or more and includes a student
mediation aspect. The RCCP approach to conflict resolution integrates two primary
components: the RCCP elementary and secondary curriculum and the RCCP student
mediation program. A third component - the parent training curriculum introduces RCCP
principles into the home to send youth a consistent message from parents and teachers, who
reinforce each other.
5)
Citizens and community leaders: The Nuestro Centro (Our Center) Gang, Drug, and
Dropout Intervention Program in Dallas, Texas, inaugurated in 1991, took a grassroots
prevention approach to the problem of juvenile violence. Citizens and community leaders in a
predominantly minority neighborhood decided to take back their streets by converting an
abandoned fire station into a community-run youth center. Participants in the after school
program are unemployed and undereducated youth affected by drug abuse, gangs, school
problems, family problems, physical and sexual abuse, and delinquency. Through the
dedicated work of counselors and volunteers, most of whom live in the neighborhood, the
program has shown significant success in deterring gang violence and drug use, with 95
percent of participants surveyed involved in educational activities, including school, general
equivalency diploma (GED) preparation, and vocational training.
6)
Survivors of homicide victims: The SOSAD (Save Our Sons and Daughters) Peace
Project is a crisis intervention, violence prevention, and peace promoting program started by
Clementine Barfield, whose son Derick was killed in the summer of 1986. Along with other
parents of slain children, Clementine decided to go beyond her mourning and began working
to create positive alternatives to violence in Detroit. SOSAD provides counseling and training
in violence prevention, crisis intervention, multi cultural conflict resolution, gang redirection,
peer and bereavement support. In SOSAD's Peace and Conflict Resolution Curriculum for
Elementary School Age Children, teachers, students and community members are trained to
assist traumatized kids. This Curriculum teaches peacemaking skills, peace activities, and
peaceful behavior to the children. SOSAD's Violence Prevention and Peach Program is
06/21/96 FRI 11:24 FAX 202 514 6383
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004
aimed at creating Peace Zones throughout the city. It is violence free, drug free, and weapon
free. SOSAD's dream is to eventually link all of the Peace Zones together until the entire
city is at peace.
7)
Federal leadership and parents: The Corporation for National Service's AmeriCorps
program has established a Safe Corridors program in the elementary schools in Philadelphia.
The program is designed to ensure the safe passage of youth to and from school by using 80
parent volunteers who patrol the streets around the schools in the mornings and afternoons.
The volunteers designed the program structure and are responsible for recruiting other parents
to carry out the program. The Safe Corridors program has been so successful in increasing
safety that the city is offering it as a model for statewide implementation. In Seattle,
Washington, AmeriCorps members staff seven Safe Haven sites that provide an opportunity
for more than 1,000 at-risk youth to participate in workshops, tutoring and mentoring
programs, and conflict resolution sessions. The programs are designed to increase self-esteem,
provide educational opportunities, and reduce violent behavior.
If you have any questions regarding this information, I can be reached at 7-5983.
06/21/96 FRI 16:23 FAX 202 514 6383
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001
&
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
AUTICE
Office for Victims of Crime
FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION
COVER SHEET
TO:
SABRINA CORCETTE
OFFICE:
OTFL/WIT OTFL / WIT
FAX #:
4565709
DATE:
21 June
FROM:
DAVID OSSAWE
Office for Victims of Crime
Office of Justice Programs
Phone # : (202) 307-5983
Fax #: (202) 514-6383
PAGES:
3
(including cover sheet)
NOTES:
MORE STUFF ON WASH. STATE
PLEASE NOTE THE LAST
PARAGRAPH, WHICH GUES Godd (NFd
ON THE MAVIA PROGRAM DIRECTOR THAT
SHOULD BE MENTIONED IN THE FIRST
LADY'S ADDRESS.
STILL CHECKING ON THE STATUS of
VICTIM'S RIGHTS IN WASH.
06/21/96 FRI 16:23 FAX 202 514 6383
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002
OVC FORMULA GRANT FUNDING
The State of Washington received a total of $6.378 million in Victims of Crime Act
(VOCA) crime victim assistance and compensation formula grant funding, up from $4.77
million in VOCA funding in FY 1995. $3.831 million was provided to support victim
compensation in FY 1996, up from $3.193 million for victim compensation and $2.547
million was provided for victim assistance, up from $1.575 million for victim assistance.
Since FY 1986, OVC has provided a total of $24.105 million for victim compensation and
$13.165 million in victim assistance formula grant funds to the state.
VOCA victim assistance grant funds supported 97 local victim services programs in
FY 1995 (34% to fund services to sexual assault victims; 30.5% to domestic violence
victims; 18% to child abuse victims; and 18% to underserved victims, such as victims of
elder abuse, DUI/DWI crashes, assaults, etc.). In FY 1994, the most recent year for which
complete statistics exist, VOCA victim assistance funds supported services to more than
58,400 primary victims and 19,000 secondary victims in Washington state.
The agency that administers the VOCA victim compensation grant is the Department
of Labor and Industries. The Department of Social and Health Services administers the
VOCA victim assistance grant program.
VOCA-FUNDED PROGRAMS OF INTEREST
The victim services programs described below are noted for their exemplary and
innovative services and are all located in the Seattle area.
1) Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services in Seattle ($137,676 in VOCA victim
assistance grant funding from 1987 to 1995)
Founded in 1986, this program is the only one of its kind in the United States. This
community-based organization provides services to deaf and deaf/blind individuals who are
victims of domestic or sexual violence. This program also provides services to deaf children.
Contact: Marilyn Smith, (206) 453-1408
2)
United Indians of All Tribes In Seattle ($211,625 in VOCA grant funding from 1991
to 1995 - Victim Assistance: $175,000; Victims in Indian Country: $35,625)
This community-based program provides services to the Native American community
through its Ina Maka Family Services Program. Although the program has been in existence
for 15 years, it has provided services to victims of crime since 1991. It provides culturally
sensitive and relevant treatment techniques to Native American victim of crime, including
child abuse victims. Contact: Bernie Whitebear, (206) 325-0070
3) Virginia Mason Medical Center In Seattle ($99,603 in VOCA victim assistance
grant funding from 1991 to 1995)
This hospital-based program established in 1991 provides support and education to
06/21/96 FRI 16:24 FAX 202 514 6383
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003
survivors of homicide victims. In collaboration with the King County Medical Examiner's
office, the Separation and Loss program contacts the family members of homicide victims
and provides a comprehensive array of services. The program has developed a plan for
meeting the needs of culturally diverse populations, as well as individuals and families who
are unable to receive services from any other organization in the community. Contact:
John Purrington, (206) 223-6398
4) Harborview Medical Center, Seattle
This facility is noted for its programs for child abuse victims, as well as one of the few
offender-focused programs in the country. Lucy Berliner, a nationally known expert on child
physical and sexual abuse, serves as the Director of the Harborview Sexual Assault Center
in Seattle and as a clinical social work professor at the University of Washington. Ms.
Berliner has conducted some of the most important research studies on child victimization.
She has written more than 40 articles and book chapters, and co-edits several journals,
including the Journal of Interpersonal Violence and Child Maltreatment, and Sexual Abuse:
A Journal of Research and Treatment. She has also contributed to three award winning
films, one of which, "Double Jeopardy," continues to be cited as a model to assist children
going to court. She received the Crime Victim Service Award from President Clinton in
1995. Contact: Lucy Berliner, (206) 223-3047
5) Refugee Women's Alliance, Seattle
This community-based program providing comprehensive services to refugee and
immigrant women, including a well-developed program focused on domestic violence.
REWA was founded in 1984 by a group of successfully re-settled refugee women who were
concerned that refugee women were not being served by existing refugee services. It has
entered into successful collaborative effort with the Seattle Police Department to develop a
better response to youth and battered women. This program has not applied for VOCA
funding in the past, but will be encouraged to do so in the upcoming funding cycle.
Contact: Sue Wilkes, (206) 721-0243
OVC INTERACTION WITH MAVIA
In May, Jenny Wieland, the MAVIA Program Director and a founding board member,
participated in an Office for Victims of Crime focus groups examining the treatment of victims
of gang violence. This group met to discuss issues involved in assisting this underserved
population of crime victims and offered recommendations regarding the development of a
national network of people and organizations to address these issues. This group will
present a report to Associate Attorney General John Schmidt outlining other
recommendations to improve the federal response to victims of gang violence, and Ms.
Wieland has agreed to serve in a continuing advisory capacity to address these problems.
Ms. Wieland also attended the White House signing of the 1994 Crime Act.
9
06/21/96 FRI 16:45 FAX 202 514 6383
OVC
001
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
SUSTER
Office for Victims of Crime
FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION
COVER SHEET
TO:
SABRINA CORLECTE
OFFICE:
OTFL/WH
FAX #:
4565709
DATE: 21 Dane
FROM:
DAVID
Office for Victims of Crime
Office of Justice Programs
Phone # : (202) 307-5983
Fax #: (202) 514-6383
PAGES:
Y
(including cover sheet)
NOTES: WASHINGTON APEARS To HAVE A. STATE
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ON CROME
VICTIMS' ALGHTS
06/21/96 FRI 16:45 FAX 202 514 6383
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CONSTITUTION OF WASHINGTON
ARTICLE 2, SECTION 35
Ratified by the people of Washington on November 7, 1989.
§ 35. RIGHTS OF CRIME VICTIMS.
Effective law enforcement depends on cooperation from victims of crime.
To ensure victims a meaningful role in the criminal justice system and to
accord them due dignity and respect, victims of crime are hereby granted
the following basic and fundamental rights.
Upon notifying the prosecuting attorney, a victim of a crime charged as a
felony shall have the right to be informed of and, subject to the discretion
of the individual presiding over the trial or court proceedings, attend trial
and all other court proceedings the defendant has the right to attend, and
to make a statement at sentencing and at any proceeding where the
defendant's release is considered, subject to the same rules of procedure
which govern the defendant's rights. In the event the victim is deceased,
incompetent, a minor, or otherwise unavailable, the prosecuting attorney
may identify a representative to appear to exercise the victim's rights. This
provision shall not constitute a basis for error in favor of a defendant in a
criminal proceeding nor a basis for providing a victim or the victim's
representative with court appointed counsel.
06/21/96 FRI 16:46 FAX 202 514 6383
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WASHINGTON AMENDMENT LANGUAGE
RATIFIED BY VOTERS IN NOVEMBER 1989
STATE CONTACT:
Mike Grant
Attorney General's Office
Highways-Licenses Building, 7th Floor
Olympia, WA 98504-8071
(206) 586-1883
06/21/96 FRI 16:46 FAX 202 514 6383
OVC
004
Article I.
TON
CONSTITUTION OF WASHINGTON
Art. 2, § 33
Dents
had shot and killed her husband, and
of evidence violated this section State
was
could be admitted in murder prosecution,
V. Nealund (1988) 50 Wash.App. 531, 749
P2d
despite defendant's claim that admission
P.2d 725.
al
I 30. Rights Reserved
to re
Robin-
Notes of Decisions
tendence at execution was "fundsmen-
4 P2d
Executions 4
cal, insliensble right under the laws of
God and nature" protected under State
any is
Constitution. Halquist V. Department of
Rooey
L Executions
Corrections (1989) 113 Wash.2d 818, 783
20. 768
Journalist failed to establish right to
P.2d 1065.
stiend execution absent proof that at-
8 35. (Rights of Crime Victims]
re been
Effective law enforcement depends on cooperation from victims of crime.
e effer
To ensure victims a meaningful role in the criminal justice system and to
es pen-
accord them due dignity and respect, victims of crime are hereby granted
, would
the following basic and fundamental rights.
en seo-
Upon notifying the prosecuting attorney. a victim of 8 crime charged as &
k -
(Wash
felony shall have the right to be informed of and, subject to the discretion
80 P2d
of the individual presiding over the trial or court proceedings, attend trial
and all other court proceedings the defendant has the right to attend, and
to make a statement at sentencing and at any proceeding where the
I coo.
defendant's release is considered, subject to the same rules of procedure
which govern the defendant's rights. In the event the victim is deceased,
is con
incompetent, 8 minor, or otherwise unavailable, the prosecuting attorney
are CAB
tul as
may identify a representative to appear to exercise the victim's rights.
ing Co.
This provision shall not constitute 8 basis for error in favor of a defendant
989) 55
in & criminal proceeding nor a basis for providing a victim or the victim's
representative with court appointed counsel.
contrac
Adopted by Amendment 84 (Laws 1989. SJ.R. No. 8200. approved Nov. 7. 1989), eff.
contract
Dec 7, 1989.
crise of
airment
leablein,
ARTICLE II-LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT
LApp. 1,
pecisl in-
§ 25. Extra Compensation Prohibited
hat justi
Birken-
Notes of Decisions
surance benefits to its superior court
kin, Inc
Health care benefits 26
judges when the judges. who are also
2. 1. 776
state officers, receive similar benefits
from the state. Op.Atty.Gen. 1988. No.
26. Health care benefits
29.
A county may lawfully eliminate its
provision of medical. dental. and life in-
ng denied
1 LEd2d
§ 33. Alien Ownership
Law Review Commentaries
1853-1889. Mark L. Lazarus 111. 12
2 familiar
Historical analysis of Alien Land Law:
Puget Sound LRee. 197 (1989).
d 00 bant-
Washington territory and state
of bome,
a quall B
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
June 20, 1996
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO THE WOMEN'S LEGAL DEFENSE FUND
The Washington Hilton
Washington, DC
12:55 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. If I had any sense, I would quit while I'm
ahead. (Laughter.)
Thank you for that wonderful, warm welcome. I thank those here at the head table for
their work -- Ellen Malcolm and Pauline Schneider. John Bryan, thanks for sitting up here with
me and upholding gender equality. (Laughter.) I appreciate that. And thank you for proving
as, I believe, one of America's truly outstanding chief executive officers, that it is possible to
do well and to do good in one's life. Thank you for what you have done. Thank you.
(Applause.)
And thank you, Judy Lichtman. You know, she was saying all that about constancy and
always being there. And the truth is, I just could never bear to disappoint her. (Laughter.)
You are a remarkable national treasure for what you have done here, and we are very grateful
to you. Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you. (Applause.)
You were kind enough to mention the women who hold prominent positions in our
administration and who fill judgeships of this country, and the U.S. attorneys positions and
others. There are two who came with me today who have a lot to do with the work we do on
women's issues, and I would like to acknowledge them in particular -- Alexis Herman and Betsy
Myers. I thank them for what they have done in -- (applause).
I note with some satisfaction and pride that in the last two years you had the Vice
President speak here. And then you had Hillary speak here. And I'm glad you finally got
around to me. (Laughter.) I appreciate being given the chance to come. (Laughter.)
I also appreciate, and I know Congresswoman Jane Harman, who's here with me,
appreciates what you said about the Congress and the budget. John.heard me say this yesterday,
but about 10 days ago or so I was at one of these fundraisers, you know, that you do a lot of
at this time of year, there was a gentlemen there at the fundraiser who had brought his son. His
son was his companion at the fundraiser. And this young man was 10 years old. I asked him
after this interchange how old he was because it was so amazing. This young man comes up
to me, shakes my hand, says, you know, Mr. President, he said, I imagine it's difficult for you
to hear a funny joke that you can actually retell in public, isn't it? (Laughter.) A 10 year old
boy. And I said, well, now that you mention it, it kind of is. (Laughter.) When I was a
governor, I used to keep people laughing all the time. Then they told me it wasn't presidential.
And he said, well, I heard one that I think you can use. I think it's appropriate.
(Laughter.) I said, alright, what is it?
He said, well you should tell people that you're being President with this Congress is sort
of like a man standing in a cemetery. There are a lot of people under you, but nobody's
listening. (Laughter and applause.) In case you'd like to meet that young man, he's now the
youngest member of the White House speechwriting staff -- (laughter) -- and intending to
support his parents in their old age.
I am very honored to be here, especially on your 25th anniversary, to thank you more
than anything else for the work that you have done for opportunities for women, for stronger
families, and a brighter future for America. As many of you have heard me say so many times,
I am convinced that we are moving into an age of enormous possibility for our people as we
move from the Industrial Age to the Information Age, as we leave the Cold War behind for a
new global society that is full of its own problems but still provides people more opportunities
to live out their dreams in different ways than any previous period in human history.
I ran for President because I wanted to move our country into the 21st century, meeting
the challenges of this new era, protecting our values and guaranteeing that every American who
would be responsible should have the chance to pursue opportunities; that would give every
person -- without regard to their race, their gender, their background -- the chance to live out
their dreams, because I wanted to see this country coming together instead of being divided.
And I was very tired, and I'm even more tired today, of seeing the political process used to take
this incredible kaleidoscopic, diverse society to divide the American people when we ought to
be working for ways to unite the American people. (Applause.)
And because I felt very strongly that our country at the end of the Cold War could not
revert to its historic impulse, to withdraw into our borders -- that this is a time when we have
to stay involved in the world, when only America can be the world's greatest source of
inspiration for peace and freedom and for prosperity.
So those were the things that I wanted to do when I ran for this job, that I was
determined to do when I got this job. And you have helped in that mission. You know,
preserving the basic values of America and making us live up to them -- that's really what the
Women's Legal Defense Fund is all about. The opportunity for people to live out their own
personal dreams and to build strong families and forge strong communities -- that's really what
2
the Women's Legal Defense Fund is all about.
We are still working on those things, and we are still bedeviled by some old problems.
Yesterday, you many have seen in the press reports, I spend a lot of time working with
governors and other officials to try to come up with even more effective strategies to not only
find the people who are burning these religious institutions -- most of them African American
churches, at least one of them a mosque and, I might add, some white churches that have burned
in our country in the last 18 months -- there has been a big upsurge in overall burnings of
religious institutions in the last 18 months. But we were also searching for ways to reach the
heart of America to prevent these things from occurring. because they are a stark reminder that
while we value religious liberty more deeply than any other nation in human history, the demons
that haunt the human spirit in every land are not absent from America. And you have to stamp
them out whenever they rear their ugly head. (Applause.)
I will always be very grateful, as Judy said, that the first law I signed was the Family
and Medical Leave Law. (Applause.) And I wanted it so badly -- and some of you may
remember, it was a hotly debated issue in the 1992 campaign because Congress had already
passed it and it had been vetoed once, maybe even twice. I can't remember. But the thing that
struck me about it is that it was the symbol of the kind of country we should be trying to build.
I am the son and the grandson of working women. I never thought there was anything abnormal
about it. But I also know that the most important job any man or woman has is doing a good
job of raising the children that they're fortunate enough to bring into this world.
And it seems to me that if you look at the pattern of work and child rearing and the
tensions between them, and the troubles so many people still have finding adequate child care,
and the difficulties so many people still have earning a decent living, an adequate living to raise
their children, and still have time left over to spend time with their children.
One of the central goals of America in the 21st century should be to enable people to
succeed at work and at home. If we have to choose one or the other, we're going to be in
trouble. We know now that our economy needs all these people in the work force. We know
that most families, even two-parent families, need both incomes to have a good stable life. How
can we even imagine a world with even more rapid changes and more unforeseen challenges that
doesn't have systems in America for people succeeding at home and at work? If we have to give
up succeeding at work to raise our children, our economy will surely suffer. If we have to give
up successful raising our children just to make a living, well, the money won't be worth it.
The Family and Medical Leave Law puts this country on record as saying our national
goal is to enable people to be good parents and successful at work. And I'm proud to say that
a recent bipartisan panel concluded that just since the law has been in effect, 12 million
American workers have been able to take time off when they had a birth in the family or a sick
child or a sick parent without losing their jobs. Almost 90 percent of the businesses that were
surveyed said that complying with the law costs them little or nothing. This has been good for
families and good for America.
3
The other day we had a very impressive group of people in the White House, the children
who were the designated representatives of the Children's Miracle Telethon in each of the states,
children who had been desperately ill in children's hospitals, and they and their parents came
to the White House. And I went downstairs to shake hands with all of them. And before I got
out of the room, two of the parents spontaneously had come up to me and said, we would never
have made it if it hadn't been for the Family Leave Law. I got to keep my job and try to help
take care of my child. I don't know what this country was like before it.
And I can say to you it's amazing to me there are still people who say that we shouldn't
have passed it. There are still people stubbornly saying, oh, there must be some way around
this. There is no way around it. Our goal should be success at home; success at work. And
that's what it's all about. And if it hadn't been for the Women's Legal Defense Fund, it might
not be the law of the land. You were there a long before I had a chance to sign it and I thank
you for that. (Applause.)
I've sought for other ways to give women and particularly families more power, more
control. It is true that I have sought to protect the right to choose and reproductive rights. We
also have dramatically expanded what I call the family tax credit, the earned income tax credit,
so that as we go forward today it's worth about $1,000 to every family in the country with an
income of $28,000 or less with children in the home. Our goal is to say if we're going to
preach at people to work, the tax system should not put them in poverty if they have children
at home. If you work full time and you have children at home, the tax system should lift you
out of poverty, not push you down into it. That's what the earned income tax credit's all about,
and I'm very proud of it. And I have opposed vociferously the attempts in the last year and a
half to cut back on it in ways that would, in effect, raise taxes on the hardest pressed working
families in this country. That is wrong. Success at home, success at work. Don't let the
government get in the way of that. The government should be helping that.
We also have tried to give parents more control in helping to raise their children. That's
really what the crusade we've been on trying to restrict advertising of tobacco products to
children is about. (Applause.) And it's what the V chip was all about. And I applaud the
entertainment industry for their willingness to develop these rating systems on television. I don't
believe in censorship, I just believe parents ought to have some ability to raise their kids and to
try to expose them to things in the appropriate way at the appropriate time. And this is the thing
that I think all of you -- I think it would be helpful to all of us if we began to think in these
terms.
We don't have a person to waste. We need everybody's ability. We need people to have
a chance to grow up and have good schools and a clean environment and safe streets and also
strong families. And when I think, when I imagine what the world is going to be like 10 or 15
years from now, I know that there will be millions of people working 10 years from now in jobs
that have not even been created yet. Some of them we can't even imagine. And it will be a
very exciting time if we have a system by which we can work with other freedom loving people
4
to fight back the security threats we face from terrorism and biological and chemical weapons
and things like that; and if we have a structure of community and family here at home that
enables us to give people the chance to be successful at home and successful at work, and
children the chance to have safe streets and good schools and a clean environment. If we can
do that, if we can set up that framework, there are no guarantees in life, but at least people will
have the opportunities they need.
One other thing I want to say about that is that that means that this country must say that
the level of crime and violence we have is simply unacceptable and it is not unavoidable. We
can do something about it. (Applause.)
You know, when we passed the Crime Bill in 1994, it embodied the central commitments
I made to the American people when I ran for President. We also passed the Brady Bill then.
I said I want the Brady Bill, I want the assault weapons banned, I want 100,000 police on the
street, I want three strikes and you're out for serious offenders, but I want funds going to
communities to give young people the chance to say yes to something, to stay out of trouble
before they get into trouble. That's what I think we ought to do. (Applause.)
And I have spent years and years and years going around visiting people in law
enforcement and looking at these programs and trying to learn what works -- first, of course,
in my own state and then, when I began to travel some, around the country. And I was
convinced that we can bring the crime rate down. I'd seen it happen in various communities
simply by implementing these strategies. And there were those who said that the Crime Bill was
a fraud and a fake and wouldn't have any impact. Well, I can tell you that it's 1996 now, and
we're almost half-way home on putting those 100,000 police on the street. We're ahead of
schedule. We are under budget.
We have passed the assault weapons ban. And there haven't been any hunters and
sportsmen or women lose their weapons and their bullets and all that. It was all a big smoke
screen. Everybody who wants to go deer hunting is still doing it. (Laughter.) But I'll tell you
something, there are 60,000 -- let me say it again, 60,000 -- felons, fugitives and stalkers who
have not been able to buy handguns because of the Brady Bill. Check into it. (Applause.)
Now the Supreme Court has agreed to review a case over the constitutionality of
requiring local law enforcement officials to help make sure that a person buying a handgun is
legally entitled to do so. Well I just want to make clear, I am going to do everything in my
power to keep the Brady Bill the law of the land. It's keeping people alive. It's a good thing.
(Applause.) Convicted felons and fugitives and people who are a threat to the community or to
their own spouses and children should not be out there, if we can keep them legally from having
the handguns by a simple waiting period so that we can check whether they should have it or
not. Every law enforcement organization in this country has endorsed the Brady Bill. And we
dare not walk away from it. It is keeping people alive.
And let me point out now, the prime rate in this country is going down this year. It is
5
going to be the fourth year in a row that it's gone down. It's because people all over this
country now have figured out community policing works, because prevention strategies work;
because this whole approach works. There's more to do. We need to ban these cop-killer
bullets so our police are not at risk when they're out there. (Applause.) But this is working.
(Applause.) And the point I want to make to you is that we can make a difference here. We
can make a difference here. Don't let anybody tell you that America is just an inherently violent
country and we have to tolerate this level of violence. It is simply not true. We can do better.
There's more to do in a lot of other ways. I thank you for support of the minimum
wage. Ten million people depend on it and we need to raise it. (Applause.) I'm rather tired
of being told that the only people that get the minimum wage are middle and upper-middle class
teenagers who are living at home with their parents who don't need it. Sixty percent of the
people on the minimum wage are women workers, many of them have children they're trying
to support on the minimum wage. (Applause.)
We have to help people adjust to the changes in the new economy. That's why I, even
though -- and I appreciate what Judy said about health care, and I thank -- so many of you
helped Hillary when we committed the unpardonable sin of trying to give every American health
care that they could afford. (Laughter.) And somehow I don't think God's going to hold it
against us when our final accounting comes. (Applause.)
But we ought to pass the Kennedy-Kassebaum bill, and we ought to do it now. We ought
to do it in a uncluttered fashion. And we ought to quit fooling around with it. (Applause.) It's
time to stop holding these good legislative measures. That bill passed 100 to zero in the Senate.
And it is now being held hostage to controversial measures inessential to the fundamental
purpose of the Kennedy-Kassebaum bill. We should pass it now. People should not lose their
health care because somebody in their family has been sick or because they have to change jobs.
That is wrong, and we can change it and we should do it. (Applause.)
We ought to guarantee that whenever someone loses a job or they're grossly
underemployed and they need more training, they qualify for federal help. I believe they should
get a voucher they can take to their local community college. That's the G.I. Bill for American
men and women workers. That has been tied up in the Congress over an ideological argument,
extraneous to the merits, for a year. It is time to pass that. (Applause.)
The Congress has a package of pension reform legislation which would make it much
easier for small businesses and self-employed people to take out pensions and then to carry it
with them from job to job without ever losing their coverage. That sounds like a simple thing
if you happen to work for the government and you've got a good retirement program, or you're
fortunate enough to be in a big company with a good retirement program. But it is a huge deal
to American men and women who do not have access to this. And as far as I know, there is
no opposition in the Congress to this package of pension reform legislation. We ought to pass
it, get it out there, tell people you can at least save for your retirement and you won't lose it if
you lose your job for a while or you have to change jobs. These are important measures that
6
need to pass. (Applause.)
And I believe that while we dare not get into some flagrant tax-cutting war until we finish
the work of balancing the budget, we should give families a deduction for the cost of college
tuition and a tax credit so that everybody who wants to can go to at least two years of education
after high school; to make community college 14 years of education, not 12 the rule in America.
We need it. It would help the American economy. It would lift the incomes of millions of
working women. (Applause.)
I also want to say that we have more to do in the area of public safety, especially on the
issue of domestic violence. A lot of you were particularly active when we working for the
Crime Bill in passing the Violence Against Women provisions and setting up the domestic
violence operation in the Justice Department, which Bonnie Campbell is doing such a good job
of heading. And I thank you for that. But there is more to be done there. Violence against
women is certainly no stranger in this country. It is an unwelcome intruder. And it is not a
family problem, and it is not a woman problem, and let me say it is most assuredly not just a
poor person's problem. This is an American problem that we have to face. (Applause.)
In September federal prosecutors used that law to ensure that a man convicted of severe
violence against his wife was sentenced to life in prison. The Violence Against Women Act says
that victims of domestic violence should be able to seek relief in federal court for a violation of
their civil rights, and yesterday a federal judge upheld that provision of the law as well.
(Applause.)
Last February, we launched a 24 hour, seven day, toll-free hotline so that women in
trouble can find out how to get emergency help, find shelter, or report abuse to the authority.
Today, the hotline has responded to over 20,000 calls from women all across this country.
Again, that's just the first three months. We don't have the latest up-to-date. But, think of that
-- a lot of those people never would have even called for help before. And I'll get in my plug,
the number is 1-800-799-SAFE. And I want people to keep using that number. We are working
those cases and helping people.
Today, we are taking the next step. I am proud to announce that our Justice Department
is awarding over $46 million to help 336 different communities in America to fight domestic
violence through the community policing program. The police departments who will be
receiving these grants have well-established community policing programs, strong relationships
with local providers of services to victims. We're coupling the power of the police forces routed
in the community with the experience of people who have been fighting domestic violence for
a long time.
And again, I say, this will work. I was in San Diego recently, and let me just give you
one example. Their police department has one of the largest domestic violence networks in
America. They formed it in 1992 and since then, domestic violence homicides have been cut
by 50 percent. You must believe we can do something about these problems, otherwise all these
7
things just become words. I'm telling you, you can make a difference if we do the right things
and we do them together.
The San Diego Police Department is getting a grant today that they will use to help start
an information network with the local YWCA to give victims and service providers and police
officers one-stop access to all the available help in the area, to bring the domestic violence rate
in San Diego down even more and to help victims as they work to take control of their lives
back.
As I said when I announced the hotline, you know, if it just saves one life it's worth it.
But it's not enough. We have to keep doing this until this is the exception, not the rule. We
have to keep working on all these problems until crime is the exception, not the rule. We will
never rid the country of crime. We will never have no domestic violence. But you know what
the test is? The test will be when you can go home at night, turn on the evening news and if
the lead story is a crime story, it the lead story is a domestic violence story, you are surprised
instead of numb to it. That is the test. And we have to keep going until you are surprised
again. (Applause.)
So I will close by echoing Judy's wonderful remarks. As you celebrate 25 years of
progress in the lives of women and strength for the women and families of this country, I ask
you to rededicate yourselves to the work yet to be done. I ask you to see this as an unfinished
journey. I ask you to celebrate your achievements as evidence that you can make a difference.
Sometimes I think that when we think about our thorniest problems, our biggest difficulty is that
we tend to get so weighed down by them we think that we can't change the fundamental fabric
of this society. Two hundred twenty years-plus of American experience gives the lie to that
cynicism. You can make things better, you can make progress, we can make a difference. You
have a great 25 years, and you have got an agenda that will fill up the next few years. I ask you
to embrace it with vigor and good humor and determination and courage, and we will prevail.
Thank you and God bless you all. (Applause.)
END
1:25 P.M. EDT
8
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
(Glendale, California)
For Immediate Release
June 11, 1996
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO THE COMMUNITY OF GLENDALE
Glendale Community College
Glendale, California
10:40 A.M. PDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you so much. Thank you very, very much. President
Davitt, thank you very much for welcoming here and for your kind remarks. And thank you,
Hazel Ramos, for not only the fine statement you made, but for the power of your example.
If you represent the future, I think the future is in good hands, indeed. I thought you did a very
good job. Thank you. (Applause.)
I want to thank your mayor, Calvin Baker, and the others who came out to welcome me
today, to make me feel so at home. And I want to thank all of you for coming out on this
beautiful day in this beautiful community. I told President Davitt, you know, that it is true that
I visit a lot of community colleges. I believe in the community college. I believe that as I look
at all of you, from all different backgrounds, all walks of life, average age about probably 27
-- the student body I see the future of America at its best.
And I believe that the country we have to create in the 21st century has to work more
like the community colleges. It has to be less political and more personal and more human.
(Applause.) We have to be very flexible and willing to change and move with the markets, but
also be committed to the development of every single individual. And that's basically what the
community colleges do. And I hope in these next few months in this election season, as we
discuss the future of our country we'll be able to do it in a civil and open and honest way that
reflects the kind of strength and roots in America that we all share, as well as the honest
differences of opinion we all have. And I see that in the community colleges and I sense that
here at Glendale here today. So I thank all of you for being here and for representing that for
our country. (Applause.)
I'd also like to say, on a more personal note and in keeping with the comments I just
made I realize that Washington is a long way away and it's easy for all of us to become
alienated from it. And I know we live in a time when it is fashionable to criticize public service
and long tenure in public service. But even though I am about to begin a rather vigorous
campaign with Senator Dole, I would like to ask all of you, including those of you who are my
supporters, to just take a moment and wish him well. This is his last day in the Senate. He has
given over 30 years of his life to serving our country in the U.S. Congress, and I think we ought
to give him a hand today. (Applause.)
You know, this school has been a center of learning for nearly 70 years. I learned, in
preparing to come here, that when the earthquake occurred here in 1933 -- not 1993 -- the
students here were so dedicated to their education that they actually met in tents after the
earthquake. Over the years, the student body has changed here. Many of you were born in
other countries, including the young woman who just introduced me. But what has remained
unchanged is that this community college is a place where students can get the knowledge and
skills they need to help to realize their dreams.
And now the community college movement indeed is sweeping the U.S. There are more
than hundred community colleges in California alone. And enrollment is exploding everywhere,
because community colleges fill a need to strengthen the communities, to strengthen people's
individual dreams, and to help them build successful families. There are so many examples of
that here, in your Professional Development Center, in the work you do to provide low-cost
babysitting services for people who have to be students and parents and workers at the same
time.
I want to say a special word of thanks to Glendale for the Volunteer and Service
Learning Center that Americorps, our national service program, has helped to fund. I thank you
for that. (Applause.)
When I became President, and California's economy and the American economy was
under such distress, and there was so much division and rancor in our country, one of the things
that -- (audience interruption).
You know, we have now -- wait, wait, wait, wait -- we have now observed her free
speech rights; it will be interesting to see if she will observe ours, won't it? (Applause.) Thank
you. Thank you. Wait, wait, wait, wait. Folks, you cannot blame this poor woman. They
have nothing to run on. We have a good record, so they have to try these kind of radical, crazy
attacks. She can't help it. (Applause.) It's just like when you take a cookie away from the kid
and they're mad about it. You know, they can't help it. (Laughter.) Just be patient.
(Applause.) Some people think they own the public institutions of this country and they have
a right to terrify you to get them back. They don't. Just relax. We'll have a good time and
talk about the real issues. Thank you. (Applause.)
Now, where was I? (Laughter.) When I ran for this job, what concerned me most was
that this was a country of enormous strength. I mean, look around here. You would be here,
you're doing this. You would be here regardless of who's president or what was happening.
That's not quite true when it comes to student aid, but I'll get back to that. (Laughter.) But
we did not seem to have any sense of how we were going to deal with all these challenges as
we moved into the 21st Century.
2
The world is changing very dramatically. Now the difference in the world today and
when I was the age of those of you who are in this community college is breathtaking. I mean,
we have moved from a world dominated by the Cold War and big blocks into a global economy.
We have moved from an economy dominated by heavy industry into one dominated by
information and technology and every form of human endeavor, whether it's industry or
agriculture or the services. We have moved into a world where knowledge, which has always
been a key to individual opportunity is now the key to the success of the whole society and is
literally the dividing line between those who can continue to do well for a lifetime and those who
risk being left behind.
Now the question we face is how are we going to meet these challenges of the 21st
Century and preserve the values which have made it possible for America to be the world's
greatest multi-racial, multi-ethnic democracy in human history. How are we going to do both?
(Applause.)
I strongly believe that the mission of this country must be to offer every American citizen
an opportunity and demand that every American take responsibility -- that that is the basic
bargain, and that's the bargain you signed on to at this community college. (Applause.) I think
if we do that, we can create a strong America that's based on strong communities and rooted
in strong families.
Today, I want to talk just a moment to all of you because people in community colleges
are on average just a little older than the typical undergraduates that go right from high school
into college, about how success for individual Americans relates to success for American
families -- because we cannot succeed in this country unless we work together in communities
across the lines that divide us. And the ability to work together begins with the ability to build
strong families.
When I gave the State of the Union address, that's the first challenge that I attempted to
deal with. Cardinal Bernadin of Chicago said once that families are the smallest democracies
across the heart of society. I believe that that is clearly true. And one of the things that
concerns me most about the world we live in today is that, contrary to what a lot of people
think, we don't have more lazy people in America. The average American is working a longer
work week today than he or she was 25 years ago. People are working hard out there.
(Applause.)
And there are a lot of people in this community college today who are very busy every
week. They're working as students, they're working at jobs and they're working with their
children. That is hard, hard work. (Applause.) And it seems to me that one way to think about
how we're all going to live five, 10, 20 years from now in this exciting global economy, with
all the opportunities that are open to you, one way to think about it is to think about how we can
create a country in which people can succeed at work and at home. How can you be successful
in your job, or in a series of job over a lifetime, and be successful in building a family. How
can you do well raising children, as well as going to work every day and, if necessary, going
3
back to school over and over again for a lifetime.
And if you think about it, any great society that forces people to make a choice in the
end is going to fail. If you have to fail at home in order to succeed at work, we're in trouble.
But if the only way you can succeed at home is to fail at work, we're in trouble. So when I
think about the kind of world we're trying to create, I often ask myself, how can I create an
America so that when I leave office every American who is willing to work for it can get up
every day and do well at home and do well at work and do well at school. That is what I want.
The first thing we have to do, obviously, is to give people economic opportunity. I'm
proud of the fact that in the last three and a half years we've cut the deficit by more than 50
percent. It's wrong to leave you with a legacy of debt. We've got interest rates so we can grow
the economy. (Applause.) I'm proud of the fact that we are now seeing an all-time record in
the products and services we're exporting, more than ever before, to the Asian Pacific region
here out of the West Coast. I'm proud of the fact that in each of the last three years we've had
a record number of new small businesses and that there have been 3.7 million more Americans
move into their own homes in the last three and half years. I am very proud of that.
(Applause.)
And I'm proud of the fact that when we passed our economic program by one vote in
both Houses -- the Vice President had to break the tie -- and some of the people who were
against it said it would bring on a recession and crash the economy. We said it would bring 8
million jobs in four years. Well, they were wrong, but so were we. It brought 9.7 million jobs
in three and a half years. (Applause.) And 600,000 of them in California, and a lot more to
come after four years of losing jobs. And so we're moving in the right direction.
But it's not enough. We also have to think about, what about all those working people?
How are they going to succeed at home? We passed the Family and Medical Leave law to say
that if you have to take a little time off, you won't lose your job because your child is sick.
And I think that's important. (Applause.) We strengthened child support enforcement 40
percent increase in three years in child support enforcement. (Applause.) We worked with state
all over America to help people who were on welfare move into school, move into work. There
are 1.3 million fewer families on welfare today than there were the day I became President, and
I'm proud of that. We have worked had to reduce the welfare roles. (Applause.)
We also recognize what you recognize every day when you come to this community
college: that we simply cannot create the kind of America we're working for until every single
American has access to a higher level of education. And we cannot allow this country to
become a more divided society. One of the most disturbing things that has happened in America
in the last 15 years is that after spending almost 40 years after World War II in which we were
growing together, in which the poorest Americans who were working were increasing their
incomes at roughly the same rate as the wealthiest of Americans, for the last 15 years we have
become a more divided society. And about half of our people are working harder and harder
without getting raises. Almost entirely the division is due to the lack of skills that are
4
marketable in the global economy.
This community college and community colleges like it all around America can turn that
around. That's why I said it is time to guarantee every single American not 12 but 14 years of
education. We should guarantee it for every American. (Applause.) The specific proposal that
President Davitt referred to that I made at Princeton the other day is that we do two things to
increase college education availability. Let me back up and say, what we have done for the last
three years is to try to give more options to young people on college loans, to cut the cost, cut
the hassle, and give people easier terms to repay, including letting people pay their loans back
as a percentage of their income, so that people that don't make a lot of money when they get
out of school won't be bankrupt by the repayment. And I think that's important. (Applause.)
We have tried to increase the Pell Grant program every year. It is impossible to
overstate how important the Pell Grant program is to a lot of people from working families who
need it for education purposes. (Applause.) But I have proposed two more things. Number
one, for students at two-year, four-year colleges, any post-high school education, I think we
should give people a tax deduction for the cost of tuition of up to $10,000 a year. All the way.
(Applause.)
However, if -- when we studied this for a year -- we were out there advocating this for
a year, it occurred to me that that would not necessarily do students a great deal of good if they
were in community colleges where the tuition was, let's say, $500, $600 a year. The average
in America is $1200. It's less than that in California still, thank goodness. But if you were in
a situation where the tuition was that amount, and your tax rate was, let's say, 15 percent, which
is what most of American taxpayers are, then the tax deduction doesn't do you very much good.
Which is why we said, if wanted to guarantee access to education to everybody for two years
after high school, we should give a tax credit, an actual credit up to $1,500 a year for the first
year, refundable for the second year if you maintain a B average or better, so everybody can
have access to two years of community college everywhere. And I think that is very important.
(Applause.)
Again I say that if we do this, this will make it possible for people to succeed at home
and at work. We need some help in other areas. I have challenged the corporations of America
to be more family friendly. We had a wonderful meeting in Washington a few weeks ago in
which we asked a couple of hundred corporate executives and members of labor organizations
and others, what do you think our obligations are to each other as we move into the 21st
century? How can we help people succeed at home and at work? I urged businesses to give
people more time off so that kids could go to teacher conferences at school, to experiment with
flex times, to open satellite offices, to reduce commuting -- which is a huge problem out here
-- to help workers with computers and faxes if they can do more work at home. Just to do
things to try to figure out how to merge work and family as we move into the future.
All of this is very important for its own sake, but it's especially important if you think
about all the problems and challenges are children facing today. When I leave you, I'm going
5
to Albuquerque to talk about some things that I try to do to help people raise their children more
safely. Albuquerque, like Long Beach, California, has adopted a school uniform program. And
that's reducing violence and increasing learning
-- an important discipline in a lot of schools. (Applause.) There will be people there from Las
Cruces, New Mexico, which, like New Orleans and a lot of other cities, has adopted a curfew
policy which has dramatically reduced violence and crime among juveniles and helped parents
to support their children. These are the kinds of things that I think we have to be alert to.
I also think there's some more things that Washington has to do. This is not very
popular when I started it, and it's still unpopular in some places. When we became the first
administration ever to ask the tobacco industry to undergo regulations in terms of the advertising
targeted at children. Buy you need to know -- (applause.) -- you need to know that it is illegal
in every state in America for children under the age of 18 to smoke. Every day -- every single
day -- 3,000 kids start smoking and 1,000 of them will die sooner because of cancer,
emphysema, heart disease or some other smoking-related problem. That is a stunning thing.
That's the biggest single health problem in America. So I believe we have to keep working on
it.
Now, California, way back in 1988, passed something called Proposition 99, which
emphasized educating children about the dangers of tobacco. I hope you will stay in the
forefront of that and I hope you will support me. We should not be spending hundreds of
millions -- maybe billions -- of dollars a year to advertise to children to do something that's
illegal, that's going to take a third of them out of this life sooner than they ought to leave. It
is wrong. It is not right. (Applause.)
One other thing I want to mention that I think affects a lot of parents who are particularly
busy is that more and more of our children are spending more and more of their time in front
of the television instead of with their parents or in other places. Now, I've worked hard with
the entertainment industry, and I want to compliment them for agreeing to develop a system of
voluntary ratings for television programs to help parents in dealing with the exposure that their
young children might have to programs with excessive violence under improper content.
And the entertainment industry, much of which is here in California, deserves a lot of
credit for doing this. They did it entirely voluntarily. We got the Congress to pass something
called the V-chip, which will go into television sets which will enable parents to control that.
And I think that's a positive thing.
But there's one other issue that I want to mention which is that I have been trying now,
for some time, to get a few hours a week -- keep in mind, kids watch about four hours a day
of television on average -- I've been trying to get the Federal Communications Commission for
a year to just say that three hours a week ought to be devoted to children's educational
programming by every network in the country. I believe that. I think it would be a good thing.
(Applause.)
6
And today, I want to formally reissue an invitation to the people from the entertainment
industry involved in television to come back to the White House before the end of July to discuss
that. If we can control, by ratings, give parents the power to deal with what their children are
watching on television, surely, surely, we can agree to increase the content of children's
television that goes to education. If you're here in school, going to community college for four
hours a day, and your kids are back home watching television, it wouldn't hurt to have at least
three hours a week devoted to their education while you're here pursuing yours. And I think
that is something that we ought to watch and work for. (Applause.)
Well, let me say again, I view these things together. And when I leave here today I hope
you will all have a conversation about the things that I mentioned. I hope you will talk among
yourselves and with your family and friends who aren't here about these great questions. This
is an incredible time we are moving into. Those of you who are students here will have more
opportunities to live out your dreams than any generation of Americans before you. Some of
you who are students here, within 10 years, will be working at jobs that have not even been
invented yet, that we cannot even imagine.
The best days of this country are still ahead of us if we can figure out how to make
opportunity available to every person who will exercise the responsible to seize it, and if we can
figure out how to come together, with all of our diversity, if we can respect each other and share
the basic values of America, we're going to do fine. You are going to have a great, great
future. But we have to be willing to have an honest discussion about this: How do you create
opportunity for everybody? How can people succeed at home and at work? How can you build
strong families and a strong community? That's the way to a strong America. It all starts here
with your education and with making sure that every single, solitary American who is willing
to work for an education has a chance to get it -- not just when they're young, but for an entire
lifetime. We can do it together. (Applause.)
Thank you and God bless you all. (Applause.)
END
11:06 A.M. PDT
7
How You Can Help Reduce
MOTHERS
AGAINST
the Violence
M
Make a personal commitment to end violence in
AMERICA
others
IN
your family and in your community.
Know your children's friends. Network with
other parents to know where your children are
Against
and whom they are with.
Model good communication and conflict
Violence
resolution skills in your home. Reject anger or
violence as a means of settling conflicts or
solving problems.
in
Don't own a gun. If you do, make certain that it
has a trigger lock and that it is stored in a secure
place where children cannot get access to it.
America
Support legislation that addresses both the
causes and manifestations of violence.
Refuse to buy products made by companies
Because violence is destroying too
whose advertising supports violent programming
or violent images, and let them know about
many of our children, their dreams,
your decision.
and their futures
Find out about conflict resolution/anger man-
agement programs in your child's school. Are
effective programs being used? Are teachers
well trained? Are administrators supportive?
It's time for an organization of
Volunteer to mentor a child in the juvenile
justice system.
mothers, working together to
Let your children see you stand up against
reduce the violence in our society
bigoted behavior or comments.
Volunteer with programs providing services to
and promote the safety and well-
survivors of violence.
Become a member of MAVIA so that your voice
being of our children.
and your choice strengthen those of hundreds
of mothers and others across the state.
Together, we can give childhood back to our
children and let them dream about their futures.
Call MAVIA, (206) 343-0676, or
(800) 897-7697, for more information.
MAVIA Is Working to Find Solutions to Violence
Founded in December, 1993, MAVIA brings the
MAVIA Is Active in Specific Areas
power and perspective of mothers to the search
Education MAVIA is committed to reducing
for solutions to the epidemic of violence against
violent behavior by fostering the development of
and by American youth. We are mothers, fathers,
strong family, school, and community skills in
students, and others concerned about this vio-
communication, conflict resolution, and anger
lence, which is threatening an entire generation
management.
of children. Together, we are building a strong,
effective statewide network directed at protect-
Family Violence Most violence against children
ing children from violence.
happens in their homes, and is committed by
people the children know and depend upon.
MAVIA Is Growing Community
MAVIA recognizes domestic violence as a signifi-
by Community
cant problem and is dedicated to reducing its
Local community and neighborhood groups,
incidence.
headed by volunteer leaders, provide the organi-
Media Violence MAVIA is exploring ways in
zational foundation for MAVIA's statewide
which we can exert more power in shaping the
growth. These Satellite Groups work in schools,
kind of programming that is produced and broad-
law enforcement, and community agencies to
cast, both by discouraging violence and by
say loudly that the violence must stop. The mis-
encouraging programming that shows alternatives
sion of each Satellite Group is to assess the youth
to violence.
violence problems in their community, recom-
Gun Violence MAVIA supports and advocates
mend solutions, and work toward making the
solutions a reality.
for legislation to reduce gun violence by and
against children. We also promote education
MAVIA Helps Students Organize to
directed at parents about the dangers of guns in
Reduce Violence
their homes and strongly encourage the use of
MAVIA sponsors Students Against Violence
trigger locks at all times in homes with children.
Everywhere (SAVE) chapters-student-initiated,
Public Policy MAVIA is working independently
school-based groups that empower kids to
and in collaboration with lawmakers and other
reduce the violence in their daily lives. SAVE helps
organizations to create effective and comprehen-
kids find ways to develop their own leadership
sive laws that address the above issues as they
skills, create safer school communities, and pro-
relate to youth violence. When legislation on
mote community service. A network of MAVIA
which we have taken a position is pending, we
members is working with schools, PTAs, local
activate our phone tree to inform our members
officials, and community groups to help ensure
so that they can make their voices heard in state
that our children acquire these skills.
capitals or in Washington, D.C.
MOTHERS
ADAINST
Won't you join us?
PHOTOCOPY
PRESERVATION
FROM EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:22AM P1
MOTHERS AGAINST VIOLENCE IN AMERICA
105 14th Avenue, Suite 2-A
Seattle, Washington 98122
FAX COVER SHEET
DATE:
June 19, 1996
TIME:
1:46 AM
TO:
SABRINA
PHONE:
FAX:
FROM:
Pamela Eakes
PHONE: 206-323-2303
President
FAX:
206-323-2132
RE:
CC:
NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER SHEET:
Message
17
Sorry about the delay. I will send more tomorrow. Please
call with any questions and ask to interrupt me. I will
send video tape to you -- could you please call and leave
your address (I misplaced it but I think it's room 190?)
Please know that any topic variation or spin off of her
book is appropriate with the audience.
Attached: MAVIA Overview and other clippings.
FROM EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:22AM P2
Mothers Against Violence in America Benefit
"Building Peace Together"
FACT SHEET
What:
Mothers Against Violence in America (MAVIA) will hold its
first benefit to support youth violence prevention programs.
When:
Monday, June 24, 1996
Time:
Reception for Award Recipients 11:45 a.m. in Foyer.
Lunch from 12:30 until 2:00 p.m. in Grand Ballroom.
Where:
Sheraton Hotel - Grand Ballroom - Seattle, WA
Attendance: 1100
Benefit
Co-Chairs: Jean Gardner, MAVIA Founding Board Member
and Phil Nudelman, President & CEO Group Health Cooperative
Speaker:
First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Sponsors:
Lead Sponsors: The Jones Foundation, PriceCostco, The Seattle Times,
Group Health Cooperative, The Boeing Company, Seafirst Bank
Major Sponsors: US Bank, Washington Mutual, PEMCO, Weyerhaeuser
Microsoft Corporation
Contributing Sponsors: Key Bank, AON Risk Services, Inc., Vision, Inc.
Tillicum Printers, The Rockey Company, KIRO-TV
Recognition: Honoring: Alene Moris will be receiving the 1996 Community Catalyst
Award for her lifetime achievement and contributions to her community.
For three decades, Alene has inspired and taught others to identify and
pursue their highest level of contribution and commitment to the quality of
life in their community. She has been a catalyst for positive change across
America and exemplifies the definition of peacemaker.
Youth Peacemakers: MAVIA and The Seattle Times will recognize three
young people in elementary, junior high, and high school, who, by
influence, example or action, make peace a visible way of life in their
community or school.
"Legacy of Caring" Scholarship Awards to 3 High School Seniors:
Three Seniors will be recognized for their exemplary contribution in
promoting nonviolence in their school. The $ 1,000 scholarship may be
used for post high school work and/or college. The scholarships are named
in memory of 1) Loetta Coston, a 9-year-old who was shot and killed
while sitting the back seat of her mother's car; 2) Antonio Terry, a Seattle
Police Officer, age 34, who was murdered by a 17-year-old; and 3) Amy
Ragan, a 17-year-old who was murdered by another teen.
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:23AM P3
To:
Sabrina
From:
Pamela Eakes
Date:
6/18/96
Subject:
HRC Seattle Trip -
Speech to Mothers Against Violence in America (MAVIA)
This provides you with an overview of the MAVIA benefit luncheon,
MAVIA's organizational mission, goals, and objectives, and backup
materials.
BENEFIT LUNCHEON
Objectives of Luncheon - Theme "Building Peace Together"
The objectives of the benefit are 1) to create a broad based awareness of
MAVIA, its mission and program, 2) create perception of hope among
attendees on the issue of youth violence, and confidence that MAVIA itself is
the organization to support to find solutions to youth violence.
Audience Definition
1.
1,100 people, 80/20 female/male
2.
Corporate sponsors include Group Health Cooperative [CEO Phil
Nudelman is Benefit Co-Chair was supportive the Administration's
Health Security Program], Seafirst Bank, PriceCostco, The Boeing
Company, The Seattle Times, Microsoft, PEMCO Insurance, The
Weyhaeuser Company, US Bank.
3.
Attendees have been invited to attend by a friend serving as a Table
Captain. The cost of the benefit has been underwritten by the sponsors
and the attendees will be "asked" at the benefit to write a check of $
100 or more with all the funds going directly to the youth violence
prevention program of MAVIA.
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:24AM P4
-2-
Benefit Program Strategy and Tactics
1.
Do Business of Event - feed, inform, make "ask"
2.
Add value to event -
a. Visible community leaders are Co-chairs
Jean Gardner, former first lady of Washington state, husband is
Booth Gardner, GATT Ambassador
Phil Nudelman, CEO & President, Group Health Cooperative
b. Award youth recognition program - Youth Peacemakers and Legacy
of Caring Scholarships
c. Honoring Alene Moris - 1996 Community Catalyst Award.
d. Testimonial of mother of victim, who is now involved with MAVIA
e. Emcee is KIRO-TV Anchor and former Today Show News
Announcer, Margaret Larson.
f. Keynoter (HRC)- best in nation on subject of children/advocacy
g. Entertainment - The Main Attraction - perform "The Greatest Love
of All"- Whitney Houston's hit.
Program Sequence
1.
WELCOME by Cheryl Terry, Chair of Board, MAVIA; Benefit Co-
chairs, Jean Gardner & Phil Nudelman; Performance by Main
Attraction.
2.
VIDEO "Building Peace Together" 7-minutes about the vision,
accomplishments, and mothers and others working together.
3.
MAVIA Founder (Pamela Eakes) 5- minutes establishes "NEED"
of the grassroots organization and its "VISION" for change.
4.
PRESENTATION OF THE 1996 COMMUNITY CATALYST
AWARD TO ALENE MORIS.
5.
PRESENTATION 1996 Youth Peacemaker Awards - elementary,
middle and high school. The Seattle Times and MAVIA
sponsorship.
6.
PRESENTATION of Three "Legacy of Caring" Scholarships.
7.
The "ASK" by Cultural Anthropologist, Jennifer James.
8.
Keynote Address by HRC.
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:24AM P5
-3-
HRC Speech - Suggested Talking Points
Basis Speech Theme:
"Building Peace Together"-- or Working Together to build (or rebuild)
communities in our country around our children that will deliver a
violence free place for children to live, learn, play, and grow-up."
National changes in violence reduction begins with local, grass roots
efforts and building partnerships with law enforcement, educators,
justice system, health care providers, local government, community
groups, and business.
*
Mothers Against Violence in America is a model grass roots,
educational, volunteer organization of people working together in their
community to find solutions to the epidemic of youth violence.
Mothers, fathers, and anyone involved in raising children must make
a PERSONAL COMMITMENT to ALL CHILDREN that they
deserve to have a violence free place to grow up.
*
Children must be supported and urged to create peace in their schools
and community. MAVIA's youth anti-violence program, Students
Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) empowers young people to
become active in promoting peace resolution to conflict, stress, anger.
*
Recognition that building a sense of purpose is a task beyond the
capacity of most families today. The crucial consistency to provide
the foundation for a violence free must come from everyone involved
in the child's life - coach, teacher, neighbors, local police officer, etc.
*
Seattle leads the nation in innovative ways to incorporate partnerships
to promote youth violence prevention. TIME magazine reported
(March '95 I think) that Seattle's 32% decrease in the homicide rate
lead the nation.
*
Police Chief Norm Stamper's (in the audience) emphasis on anti-gang
activity certainly helped Seattle reduce its homicide rate.
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:25AM P6
page 4
*
Seattle's Partners Against Youth Gun Violence is an innovative
violence prevention program involving police, doctors, prosecutors,
community organizations, and the public school system. Known
as Options, Choices, and Consequences, cops' and docs' go into
middle school classrooms and talk about the trauma of gunshot wounds
and their dangers, including lifetime physical disabilities.
*
April 1995 reported that Washington's public schools had a 41% drop
in the number of incidents involving firearms and a 26% reduction in
report of all types of weapons. (attached clipping)
But the tragic shooting of a teacher, and two students, in Moses Lake
(surviving victim Natalie Hintz, 13, and mother is in the audience)
in February and the accidental shooting of 13-year-old Alison Barkley
(her parents are in the audience) in Seattle in April makes us realize
we must all work to prevent other tragedies.
*
Nationally, CDC reported recently that murders of young people
between the ages of 15 and 24 rose 30%. (attached clipping)
Other Talking Points:
*
HRC met award recipient Alene Moris in 1992 when she was First
Lady of Arkansas. Alene was giving a talk to the Governor's Spouses
conference chaired by Jean Gardner. Alene's talk that day way about
"How to Have Your Own Identify When Married to a Governor."
According to Alene, HRC was very engaging in the training session
and introduced Alene to BC and invited Alene to join them for lunch.
Alene had to decline because she had another training session to give
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:25AM P7
MOTHERS
AGAINST
MAVIA Newsline
AMERICA
Working together to reduce the violence in our society
IN
and to promote the safety and well being of our children.
JUNE BENEFIT TO BUILD PEACE, HONOR PEACEMAKERS
First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton
The Seattle Times and Mothers
will deliver the keynote address at Moth-
Against Violence in America will
ers Against Violence in America's first
present the first annual Youth Peace-
annual benefit luncheon. "Building Peace
maker Awards to three young people -
Together," on Monday. June 24. at the
one each from elementary. middle, and
Sheraton Hotel in Seattle. The benefit
high school. who, by influence, ex-
will recognize youth and adults who have
ample or action. make peace a visible
made a significant impact on their com-
way of life in their community or
munities in areas related to MAVIA's
school. Also. "Legacy of Caring" schol
mission of reducing violence by and
arships will be presented 10 three gradu-
against children.
ating high school seniors who have
"For over twenty-five years, Mrs.
made significant contributions toward
Clinton has made children her passion
building peace in their school.
and her cause, and WC are honored to
Thanks to the generous underwrit-
have her speak at our first benefit to fund
ing of our sponsors. all proceeds from
MAVIA's violence prevention programs,"
the benefit go directly to youth violence
said Cheryl Terry. Chair of the Board of
prevention programs, like Students
Directors of MAVIA. Mrs. Clinton began
Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE).
her advocacy for children as a staff attor-
First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton
sponsored by MAVIA. Lead Sponsors
ney for the Children's Defense Fund in
include The Jones Foundation,
1973. During her time as Arkansas' First Lady, she chaired
PriceCostco, Inc., Group Health Cooperative, The Boeing
the Arkansas Education Standards Committee, served on the
Company, and SeaFirst Bank. Major Sponsors include
board of the Arkansas Children's Hospital. founded the Ar-
PEMCO, US Bank, Washington Mutual. and the
kansas Advocates for Children and Families. and introduced a
Weyerhaeuser Company.
pioneering program called Arkansas Advocates for Children
Program for Preschool Youth, which trains parents to work
with their children in preschool preparedness and literacy.
Alene Moris will be honored
ANNOUNCING THE FIRST ANNUAL
for her life works as a mother, pro-
THE SEATTLE TIMES AND MAVIA
fessional, and a leader in her com-
YOUTH PEACEMAKER AWARD
munity. For three decades, Moris
has inspired and taught others to
identify and pursue their highest
Do you know a young peacemaker? We are seek-
level of contribution and commit-
mg nominations for the first annual Youth Peacemaker
ment to the quality of life in their
award in three categories: elementary. junior high/
communities. Among many profes-
middle school and high school. Nominees should be
sional achievements. she most re-
exemplary young people who. by influence. example
cently played a pivotal role in
or action, make peace a visible way of life in their
Alene Moris
organizing the Northwest Interna-
community or school. Award recipients will be an-
tional Women's Conference and is
nounced in The Seattle Times and recognized at the
co-founder of the Northwest Women's Institute. She has been
Mothers Against Violence in America first annual ben-
a catalyst for positive change across America and exemplifies
efit luncheon on Monday. June 24. 1996. Please call
the definition of peacemaker. On the topic of violence, Moris
323-0233 for information about nominations.
says. "Traditional ways of dealing with violence are bankrupt.
MAVIA is grateful to The Seattle Times for their
We must find a way to act against it, both individually and
partnership in this youth recognition program.
together. both young and old."
FROM EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:26AM P8
MOTHERS
AGAINST
WIOLENCE M IN AMERICA
Working together to reduce the violence in our society
and to promote the safety and well being of our children.
Pamelo Eakes
President
MAVIA Overview
Jenny Wieland'
Program Director
Mothers Against Violence in America (MAVIA) was founded in December 1993 in Seattle.
Washington in response to the dramatic increase of violence by and against children. As a grass
Board of Directors:
roots. community mobilization organization. hundreds of volunteers. adults and youth, have been
empowered and trained to work in their communities to find solutions to youth violence. MAVIA has
Cheryl Terry
formed chapters and community action partnerships (CAPS) in over thirty communities across the
Chair
state of Washington. two chapters in California and additional states are in development.
Volerie Houtchens
Vice Chair
MISSION/GOALS/ACTIONS: The mission of MAVIA is to mobilize efforts to work together 10
Genie Higgins
reduce violence in our society and 10 promote the safety and well-heing of children. MAVIA's
Treasurer
primary goals are to encourage preventive investment in children before they are affected by violence.
Susan Topper
and to advocate for changes that support a safer environment for all children. Each MAVIA
Secretary
chapter/CAP determines what efforts are needed to promote violence prevention in their community.
Pam Bortlen
With 8 focus on not duplicating efforts. typical actions steps include providing community education
Rose Berg-Fasnough
opportunities for parents and students on violence prevention. building community partnerships with
Margol Blocker
Robin Boehler
government, law enforcement. medical and business communities. juvenile justice leaders: and
Mari Clock
advocating for public policies that support safer places for children to live learn and play.
Linda Gainer*
Shirley Gonse*
Judi Greer
MAVIA ACHIEVEMENTS: Through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers, MAVIA's
Brendo Jones
accomplishments have been far-reaching. capturing the heart and hope of the public, the ear of the
Poulette Miller*
Judy Poston
policy makers. and the spirit of all those who know that violence by and against children must stop.
Connie Proctor
Thousands of volunteer hours resulted in reducing the incidents and severity of youth violence. The
Koihi Skarbo
following arc a few of the many accomplishments:
Bobbie Stern*
Developed a member/supporter network of more than 4,000 advocates to promote the safety
and well-being of children. 175.000 hours of volunteer time were contributed to find solutions to
Advisory Board:
violence.
Mona Bailey
Trained MAVIA community leaders in areas of understanding the issue of violence,
Shirley Coffey"
grassroots organizing, building collaborations. conflict resolution, advocacy. parenting skills, etc.
Gloria DeGaetono
I Ield two Annual Conferences. "Finding Solutions to Violence in our Lives," featuring 35
Kenneth Eakes
Jean Enersen
presenters (all volunteered their time). and attended by 400 adults and middle and high school
Jeon Gardner"
students.
Freddie Moe Gautier
Pot Gogerly
Founded, developed and sponsor Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) in 23
Christine Gregoire
elementary. middle and high schools. SAVE's activities reaches over 10,000 students.
Lucy lsoki"
Partnered with the Seattle Police Department, the Mayor's Office, the Prosecutors Office to
Jennifer James
Solly Jewell
initiate, develop, and present a gun violence prevention course to all middle school students in Seattle
James Kelly
Schools.
Koril Klingbeil
Belinda Latterly
Successfully advocated for passage of legislation raising the age of possession of fircarms in
Norm Maleng
WA state from age 14 years to 18 years.
Dr. Dorothy Mann
Sgl. John Manning
Produced Speak Up. a resource handbook to enable parents to respond to media violence.
Roland D. Maiuro, Ph.O.
Received the 1995 City of Seattle Violence Prevention Award. Four KOMO-TV Hometown
Roso Melendez
llero Awards (a 6th grader, a 12th grader. and nvo adult leaders), and the 1995 YWCA Community
Alene Moris
Sen. Palty Murray
Service Award.
Margaret Pageler"
David Okimolo
MAVIA's long term goal is to replicate this model in more and more communities until there is a
Betty PON
Karen Reagon"
strong. national. network of volunteers committed to reducing violence in America. It is the power of
Dr. Frederick Rivara
volunteers at the grass rots level that will make this 8 safer America.
lisa Stamper
Dr. David Topper
"Founding Board
105-
14th
Avenue
Suile
2-A
Seattle, WA 98122
FROM EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:27AM P9
Mothers Against Violence in America (MAVIA) is a nonprofit, educational organization
dedicated to reducing violence in our society and to promoting the safety and well-being of our
children. As a grass roots, community volunteer organization. our goal is to encourage
preventive investment in children before they are affected by violence and to advocate for
change that supports a safer environment for all children.
MAVIA's efforts to reduce violence by and against children include:
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Community education and leadership training to mobilize involvement
in youth violence prevention efforts at the grass roots level
Speakers Bureau
Neighborhood anti-violence initiatives
Speak Up resource handbook for parents to respond to media violence
Chain of Remembrance in memory of children who have died violently
Annual "Solutions to Violence in our Lives" Conference
Education programs about gun violence, family violence, media violence
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) in elementary, middle, and high schools
SAVE Speakers Bureau
Options, Choices, Consequences program to reduce youth gun violence
Anger management/peer mediation for at risk 4th and 5th graders
MAVIA and KCPQ-TV Kids Club Elementary School Anti-violence program
Annual Youth "Solutions to Violence" Conference
Youth Peacemakers Recognition Program
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
MAVIA Newsline- Quarterly newsletter
MAVIA News You Can Use monthly newsletter to community leaders
Victim Referral Services
Media and Press Events
MAVIA Home Page on the World Wide Web (spring '96)
PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAMS
Public Policy Anti-violence Agenda at the local, state and national levels
Legislative Initiatives and Updates
For more information about any program and/or specifics about our public policy agenda,
please call (206) 323-2303 or 1-800-897-7697.
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:28AM P10
Announcing
the First Annual
Mothers Against Violence in America - Seattle Times
Youth Peacemaker Award
Do you know a young peacemaker? We are seeking
nominations for the first annual Youth Peacemaker award in
three categories: elementary, junior high/middle school and high
school. Nominees should be exemplary young people who, by
influence, example or action, make peace a visible way of life in
their community or school. Award recipients will be announced
in The Seattle Times and recognized at the Mothers Against
Violence in America first annual Awards Luncheon on Monday,
June 24, 1996. Let's cherish the young, caring, nurturing spirits
among us!
Building Peace Together: The Children Will Lead Us.
MOTHERS
ADAINST
NOMINATION FOR YOUTH PEACEMAKER
Deadline May 31, 1996: Nominations must be postmarked or faxed by midnight 5/31/96.
PROLEMCE IN
Nominee's Name
Phone
Address
City
State
Zip
school
Grade
Birthdate
Nominated by
Relationship to Nominee
Address
City
State
Zip
Day Phone
Evening Phone
Please attach a statement on a single sheet of 8 1/2 x 11" paper (no more than 250 words) telling us why this
student should be recognized as a peacemaker in our community. Send entry to MAVIA Youth Peacemaker
Award, 105- 14th Avenue, Suite 2A, Seattle, WA 98122. Fax to (206) 292-7930. For more information, call
(206) 323-2132.
Nomination
Critery
Nominees must be students currently enrolled in elementary, middle, junior or
high school (home school children are eligible). Nominations can be made by teachers, parents, relatives, youth
organizations, businesses or community members: Individuals may nominate themselves by including a letter of
recommendation, Nominees must not be currently involved in the legal system for committing a crime, including
but not limited to being charged, awaiting trail, arraignment, appeal, serving time, or on parole or probation.
Annther community program sponsored by
The Seattle Times
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:29AM P11
MOTHERS
AGAINST
MAVIA is a nonprofit, non-partisan, educational organization
30N37011
AMERICA
dedicated to reducing violence in our society and to promoting the
safety and well-being of our children. As a grass roots, community
IN
R
volunteer organization, our goal is to encourage preventive invest-
ment in children before they are affected by violence and to advo-
cate for change that supports a safer environment for all children.
AGAINST
STUDENTS
SAVE is a student-initiated group dedicated to reducing violence. SAVE is
SAVE
VIOLENCE
a long-range, proactive approach in which students become interested in
learning about anger management, peer mediation, and conflict resolution.
EVERYWHERE
SAVE students also learn how to build partnerships with teachers, law
enforcement, government officials, and business leaders to find solutions to
violence in their school and community. SAVE chapters are organized in
elementary schools, middle schools, junior high schools, high schools, and
colleges. SAVE is sponsored by Mothers Against Violence In America.
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Girl dies after gun
Jun. 19 1996 01 29AM P12
fired at pal's home
Teenage boy in custody after shooting
BY SUSAN BYRNES
can have a loaded gun in his house
Seattle Times staff reporter
without the parent having a clue,"
It had the makings of an ordinary
he said. "It just doesn't make any
teenage Saturday night: four
sense at all. Where's the parent?
friends eating hamburgers, hanging
The bottom line is it goes right back
out in somebody's house.
to the parent."
Ordinary except somebody had
The boy is in custody at the
a gun.
Department of Youth Services
Police said a teenage boy was
while police
showing off a 9-mm semiautomatic
continue their
pistol to his friends when - appar-
investigation.
ently accidentally - he shot 13-
Alison and
year-old Alison Barkley in the head.
two other
Alison, a seventh-grader at
teens, a boy,
Whitman Middle School, died
16, and a girl,
shortly after midnight yesterday at
13, were at the
April
Harborview Medical Center.
boy's house in
"She was an upbeat, very vocal
Alison
the 1200 block
kid," said her mother, Joan Barkley.
of Northwest
"She was a typical 13-year-old,
Barkley
80th Street
constantly on the go. She was well
where he lives
loved by everyone that knew her.
with his mother and grandmother.
1996
I'm going to miss her dearly. All her
"They were weekend friends,
friends were great kids."
after-school friends," the boy's
Her father, Jerry Barkley, said
mother said after visiting her son
his daughter loved to roller-skate
yesterday.
and bowl and played basketball and
"All he could do is cry," she said.
softball on community teams. He
She said she was downstairs
said she had many friends, but
doing laundry when the gun went
usually hung out with a group of
off.
girls. He said Saturday was only the
She said her son had been in "a
third 'ime she had been over to the
little trouble off and on in the past."
boy's house.
But she said she had no idea he had
"I can't understand why a kid
borrowed a gun from a friend.
Jun. 19 1996 30AM P13
EASTSIDE EDITION
OCAL NEWS
Editorial Opinion
Ross Anderson
The GOP hates science;
Democrats hate economics.
PAGE B4
E SEATTLE TIMES SECTION B WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1996
PHONE NO. 206 232 3564
'It's too much. This kind of thing doesn't happen here. It happens in Seattle, not Moses Lake.'
HOLLY SALINAS, WHO HAD KNOWN MANUEL VELA JR. SINCE HE WAS A TODDLER.
Wild pitch?
Junior for
Young shooting victim
president
JEAN GODDEN
mourned in Moses Lake
Times staff columnist
Seattle Mari-
ner Ken Grif-
fey Jr. for
president? The
BY ALEX TIZON
He wanted, above all else, to be a
Vela's classroom at Frontier Junior
off-the-center-
Seattle Times staff reporter
rapper.
High School. Today, Vela's close
field-wall idea
MOSES LAKE His lifelong
Manuel Vela Jr. lived exactly 14
friend Arnold "Amie" Fritz, 14, will
gets a boost
nickname was "Baby Blue." No one
years, 11 months. He died Friday in
be remembered at Immanuel Luth-
from Nike com-
seems to remember why. It certain-
algebra class, shot by a classmate
eran Church. Tomorrow, algebra
mercials, set to
ly was not because of his disposi-
with a hunting rifle.
teacher Leona Caires, 49, will be
air on Fox Television beginning
FROM E A E
tion. He was as happy-go-lucky as
He was buried yesterday under
laid to rest in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Saturday.
they came.
frozen ground. This little lakeshore
Natalie Hintz, 13, who was
As described in The Wall
Sure, he sometimes had a big
town of 11,500 paid him tribute and
wounded in the shooting, was listed
Street Journal, the first commer-
mouth, but he had a big heart, too,
braced for two more difficult funer-
in satisfactory condition last night at
cial opens with a shot of Griffey in
friends said. He was confident, ener-
als.
a presidential pose with the
getic, endearing.
Two others were killed in the
PLEASE SEE Moses Lake ON B 3
American flag behind him. The
narrator intones: "Ken Griffey Jr.
Athlete. Family man. Six-time
Jun. 19 1996 01:30AM P14
Moses Lake buries 14-year-old
Moses Lake
membrance of Vela.
of a cold snap. The entire lake is
CONTINUED FROM B1
They huddled together under
frozen and covered with snow.
awnings, trying to peer through win-
Spring will be much welcomed; a new
Harborview Medical Center. Mean-
dows. Many stood in the rain,
beginning.
while, the shooting suspect, 14-year-
shrouded by fog, surrounded by melt-
After the service, townspeople
old Barry Loukaitas, sits inside a
ing icicles. Some openly wept. Oth-
got in their cars and formed the
detention center 20 miles away in
ers prayed. Others looked angry.
largest funeral procession in memory
Ephrata, awaiting to hear whether he
Moses Lake Police Chief Fred
- nearly 300 vehicles. The proces-
will be tried as a juvenile or an adult.
Haynes, a member of the parish, said
sion snaked through town to a
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Despite all the talk of healing and
he couldn't recall a bigger crowd for a
cemetery five miles away.
recovery, it was obvious yesterday
funeral.
At the cemetery, Vela was low-
that the community had not yet
Asked about a possible motive, he
ered into the ground as a woman
gotten over the shock of Friday's
said he didn't know. Besides, what-
wailed in grief. Someone was playing
violence.
ever it is, it won't make the town feel
an accordion. Someone else in the
"It's too much," said Holly Sali-
better.
distance, hidden in the fog, yelled,
nas, who graduated from high school
"Even if we knew bis motivation,
"Good bye, Baby Blue!"
last year and who had known Vela
it wouldn't explain what be did,"
Afterward. people walked to their
since he was a toddler. "This kind of
Haynes said. "There is no explana-
cars in silence, and then drove in
thing doesn't happen here. It hap-
tion for what he did."
another procession back into town,
pens in Seattle, not Moses Lake."
Moses Lake, like much of the
the sound of tires through slush
Salinas went to Vela's funeral.
Columbia River basin. is in the midst
filling the streets.
She was one of the hundreds of
residents who tried to get into Our
Lady of Fatima church, but couldn't.
The church was too small.
REUPHOLSTERY SPECIAL!
Hordes of people stood outside
each entrance. Many had taken time
CHAIR
(Standard)
$17500
off from work.
Students were released from
SOFA (Standard)
$24500
classes.
DINING CHAIR (Standard)
$2400
Many wore blue ribbons in re-
LABOR ONLY Your fabric or ours
Estimates. pickup & delivery.
Parifice Extra
FROM
FROM EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:31AM P15
WEDNESDAY, April 10. 1996
A5
Weapons incidents
in public schools
down dramatically
By The Associated Press
require a mandatory one-year expul-
OLYMPIA- Washington's pub-
sion of a student who brings a gun
lic schools may not bc a weapons-free
onto school property. This is also now
zone yet, but a statewide crackdown
a federal requirement.
is leading to some dramatic improve-
Many districts have adopted a
ments. state School Superintendent
no-tolerance policy regarding
Judith Billings said yesterday.
weapons and will suspend on the first
Billings released a report that
offense. Billings said most of the 296
shows a 41 percent drop in the num-
school districts have posted gun-free
ber of incidents involving firearms
zone signs on school grounds. She
and a 26 percent reduction in reports
said 116 districts reported no weapons
of all types of weapons.
incidents at all.
School districts reported 2,217
Many districts have come up
incidents involving weapons in the
with projects to defuse tensions before
last school year, including 286 involv-
they lead to violence. Peer mediation
ing guns. The comparable figures for
programs, substance abuse projects,
the 1993-94 school year were 3.018
and other approaches are being tried.
total weapons and 488 firearms.
Parents are getting more
The most common other type of
involved. Community organizations
weapon is knives — more than 1,300
also are helping.
confiscated or reported last year.
"Students seem to have gotten a
An "incident" can be nothing more
clearer and stronger message that car-
than a teacher noticing a weapon in a
rying weapons to school is unaccept-
locker or backpack. The report does
able. even if the motivation is per-
not provide numbers for accidental or
sonal security," the state school chief
intentional injuries to students. teach-
said.
ers and staff.
"Safety in schools is a critical
The Seattle School District report-
issue," she said, noting that the recent
ed 93 incidents and Tacoma schools
legislative session approved more
reported 147 incidents, mostly knives.
money for school security grants,
Spokane schools reported 50,
including hall monitors and metal,
Shoreline 21, Auburn 24, Bellevue
detectors.
42, Bethel 67. Central Kitsap 24,
"While the drop in weapons inci-
[
Edmonds 54. Everett 52, Evergreen
dents is great news. we cannot afford
of Vancouver 33, Federal Way 97,
to slacken our efforts to make every
Highline 43, Franklin Pierce 27,
school in the state a safe and secure
Kennewick 39, Kent 75, Lake
environment for learning." Billings
Washington 24, Mount Vernon 29,
said.
Mukilteo 39, North Kitsap 31,
-
She said the public places safety as
Northshore 23, Oak Harbor 21, North
one of their top two or three concerns
Thurston 30, Pasco 22, Puyallup 31,
with the public education system.
Renton 44. Richland 20, South Kitsap
Private schools that participated in
31, Tumwater 29, Vancouver 62 and
the annual survey reported almost no
Yakima 23.
weapons. Of the 373 schools that
Billings attributed the improve-
reported, or 81 percent of the state
ments to a statewide crackdown on
total, only 21 incidents were noted,
the problem, including these steps:
four instances of firearms and 17
In 1995, the Legislature voted to
knives.
FROM : EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01 32AM P16
A16 Seattle Post-Intelligencer Friday, December 29, 1995
Seattle Post-Intelligencer
A Hearst Newspaper
J.D. Alexander Editor and Publisher
John Currie Business Manager
Kenneth F. Bunting Managing Editor
Kinthe'P
Charles J. Dunsire Editorial Page Editor
The voice of the Northwest since 1863
Drop in homicides
offset by concerns
statistics in regard to drive-by and
S
eattle's declining homicide rate
and reduced teen-age gang vio-
retaliatory youth killings. A 25-member
lence is very good news but it is
gang unit has penetrated the city's teen
tempered by some disturbing
gang culture, identifying rivalries that
trends.
could explode into violence, as well as
One is the high percentage of
individuals with the potential for vio-
homicides related to domestic violence.
lence, before it occurs.
Of the 48 killings in the city so far
As gang unit Detective Mike Devine
in 1995 - down from 71 in 1994 - 21,
told the P-I's Dan Raley this week,
nearly half, were the result of domestic
"We find out who they are, what they
violence. The number of deaths of
drive, who they sleep with, their street
course doesn't reflect the many cases
name and their gang affiliations.
of assaults in which domestic partners,
There's hundreds of people that we
predominantly women, suffer serious
know."
injuries.
Other successful prevention pro-
Police ability to control this virulent
grams include what is known as "cops
epidemic of often fatal assaults is
and docs," in which police officers and
limited. The clearest means of dealing
physicians visit middle-school class-
with this societal scourge are certainty
rooms. Youngsters learn about the
of arrest for domestic assaults, vigor-
trauma of gunshot wounds and their
ous prosecution and stiff jail sentences
dangers, including lifetime physical
combined with mandated counseling
disabilities as well as early deaths.
for offenders.
Seattle's gain in the reduction of
Juvenile gang violence offers a
juvenile violence unfortunately appears
brighter picture. Seven of this year's
to be the suburbs' pain, particularly in
Seattle homicides involved teen-age or
areas of south King County such as
younger victims, only five of them
Tukwila, where gang activity is at an
linked to gang activity. As woeful as
all-time high.
that is, it is a significant improvement
Chief Stamper has put the im-
over 1993, when 15 youths here suc-
proved homicide statistics here in
cumbed to violence. That youth vio-
realistic perspective by noting that an
lence remains a serious challenge,
expected surge in the teen-age popula-
however, was underscored early yes-
tion over the next several years could
terday when a teen-age boy riding in a
reverse this year's downward trend.
car with other youths was shot and
"Now's the time to redouble our
killed in north Seattle by an occupant
efforts and set good examples to our
of another car.
kids and drive home the message that
There appears to be a direct corre-
any violence in any form won't be
lation between Police Chief Norm
tolerated."
Stamper's emphasis on anti-gang activ-
That is a very sound new year's
ity this year and the improved crime
message.
FROM EAKES
PHONE NO. : 206 232 3564
Jun. 19 1996 01:32AM P17
MEMORY
OF
JEFF
THOMPSON
house and drive-by shootings have
yard," she said. "They live in the back of the
"Today's children can't play in the front
of 15 children in the United States every day.
Eakes notes that violence claims the lives
for Loetta's mother instantly."
she said. "As mothers, I think our hearts bled
"We are all affected when a child dies,'
no matter where they live.
From Page B1
become
have to do for youth violence," she said. "We
"What MADD did for drunk driving, we
1980s when MADD was formed.
deaths have dropped 30 percent since the early
Against Drunk Driving. U.S. drunken-driving
is in jeopardy."
PAUL JOSEPH BROWN/P-I
Pamela Eakes founded Mothers Against Violence in America after the shooting death of a 9-
year-old. "We can't afford to forget it," says Fakes, standing before mementos of slain youths.
A child's death affects us
Eakes models MAVIA after Mothers
our children our top priority, America's future
start doing something collectively and make
By ERIC HOUSTON
launched campaigns against TV violence, child
behavior.
P.I REPORTER
abuse and violent toys and games. Earlier this
year, the organization sponsored a six-week
The tragic shooting death of a 9-year-old
program at three Ballard elementary schools to
Seattle girl two years ago put Pamela Eakes on a
teach students how to settle disputes peacefully.
national crusade against violence.
The organization will hold its second annual
Eakes, of Mercer Island, could not put the
conference tomorrow at Garfield High School.
killing of Loetta Coston out of her mind. The girl
The conference, which runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
was shot to death at a South Seattle intersection
features experts who will show parents, teachers,
after her mother irritated another motorist by
social workers and others how to prevent violence
honking her horn. The motorist stopped his car,
in homes, schools and neighborhoods.
aimed a gun and fired, killing Loetta.
Seattle Public Schools Superintendent John
"Most of the time you read something in the
Stanford will give the keynote address.
executive director of the Washington Council
and violence in our society," said Larry Fehr,
be complacent about intolerable levels of crime
Pin's example suggests we don't have to
County for community service.
given: each year by the YWCA of Seattle-King
The award which was presented yesterday, is
year's YWCA Isabel Colman Pierce Award.
paper about a child getting killed, you say, 'That's
"The key thing," Eakes explained, "is activat-
Fakes was, one of three recipients of this
in neighborhoods. If don't change change
common many we
all, anti-violence mom says
want to the attitudes that
too bad,' and you forget it," Eakes said yesterday.
ing people to identify one or two things they can
"But we can't afford to forget it."
do in their communities to make them a safer
So Eakes founded Mothers Against Violence
environment for children."
in America, a grass-roots organization that seeks
Eakes is an unlikely person to head a national
to eliminate violence from the lives of children.
anti-crime organization. The 49-year-old mother
Violence: Group holds conference aimed at keeping children safe
The organization helped win passage of last
of two teen-age sons lives in an affluent neighbor-
year's federal assault weapons ban.
hood and has never lost a loved one to violence.
In Washington state, the group was instru-
She has had a long career in advertising here and
mental in passing a law making it illegal for
in Chicago.
people under 18 to own handguns or for adults to
But Eakes says everyone suffers from violence
October 19, 1995
scheduled to address tomorrow's conference
that," said Eastgard, one of several speakers
and I think that mothers are. the one to do
it's going to have to come from the grass roots'
MAVIA's efforts.
sell or give guns to youths under 18.
MAVIA, which has about 4,000 members, has
See VIOLENCE, Page B2
"If the issue of violence is going to be met
Seattle Crisis Clinic, praised Eakes and
Susan Eastgard, executive. director of the
something at a grass-roots level to combat it.
on Crime and Delinquency. "We can do
Jun. 19 1996 P18
Here
CH
SUNDAY
Serving SNOHOMISH
and ISLAND COUNTIES
102nd Year No. 5f
FEBRUARY 4, 1996
© 1096 The Daily Herald Co. $1.50
Communities can address youth violence
We must continue to work on a balanced
3564
By JENNY WIELAND
offer anti-violence curricula. If you choose
to own a gun, store it safely, inaccessible to
Because there are no simple expla-
approach regarding prevention and punish-
iolence has become so common
children and burglars. Monitor the violence
V
nations of the causes of youth vio-
ment of youthful offenders. There is no
232
that we do not only expect it and
which you allow into your home through
question that changes must occur in the
accept it, but we have begun to
television and videos. Support legislators
lence, we need these valuable part-
juvenile justice system. Young people need
206
view it as appropriate behavior.
and legislation that address both the broad,
nerships to attain our ultimate goal,
to be accountable for their actions. Current
Frustrated by unemployment, difficult eco-
root causes and manifestations of violence.
proposed legislation is addressing many of
nomic times, interpersonal or marital diffi-
Mothers Against Violence In America
peace within our community.
these concerns. However, we must continue
culties, racism and other stresses of daily
(MAVIA) has been successful at the grass-
to support prevention measures, reach those
NO.
life, we sometimes respond in a variety of
roots level by community mobilization.
broader understanding of local problems
young adults who are at risk of becoming
hostile and destructive ways. Our children
Anyone who is interested in the well-being
and local conditions. Because there are no
criminals. Research supports violence pre-
learn by example.
of children and finding solutions to youth
simple explanations of the causes of youth
vention education when children are at pre-
PHONE
The ages of the victims and the offenders
violence can organize in small Community
violence, we need these valuable partner-
school and elementary school age.
are getting younger and younger. Ten chil-
Action Partnerships (CAP) to address the
ships to attain our ultimate goal, peace
We must not forget victims of violent
dren under the age of 21 were murdered in
needs of their particular community.
within our community.
crime. As a community we need to develop
our county in 1995. Only weeks into 1996,
The CAP members gather and analyze
An extremely important component is
a process for the community to come
two more teens had become victims of
information needed to describe adequately
getting children and young people involved
together to grieve these losses and publicly
homicide. On a recent day, the Snohomish
the types of youth violence prevalent in
in the solution process. It is important that
honor the young lives who have been
County Sheriff's office had seven people in
their neighborhoods, set goals and objec-
adults give young people the opportunity to
ripped from us.
custody on murder charges, six under age
tives which are not being addressed by any
speak out about the issues concerning them
We MUST make violence prevention a
18, the youngest age 14.
other group in the community, and then
most, and that we listen to their suggestions
priority. We CAN reduce violence. We CAN
If we are to survive as healthy, respon-
find the resources to be successful.
regarding viable solutions: Youth want to
make our world a safer place for our chil-
sible, and caring people, we must teach our-
Another major key to success has been
interact with positive adult role models,
dren, our elderly and ourselves, making it
selves and our children that violence does
building collaborations and partnerships
rather than be lectured to, and they want to
easier for each member of our society to
not solve problems. We must turn our frus-
with law enforcement, schools, key players
be part of the process in establishing safe
achieve her or his full potential.
tration and feelings of helplessness and
within the criminal justice system, medical
communities.
hopelessness into action. The first step is to
professionals, local and state government,
MAVIA sponsors Students Against Vio-
Jenny Wieland of Marysville is the pro-
make a personal commitment to take
business, and other community-based orga-
lence Everywhere (SAVE) which is a student
gram director for Mothers Against Violence
action. Taking a proactive approach, we
nizations. Deeply embedded cultural prob-
initiated program. SAVE is 2 long-range,
in America, which has its headquarters in
can draw upon and empower the creative
lems such as poverty, sexism, drug and fre-
proactive approach in which students learn
Seattle. MAVIA has established more than
energies of our community.
quent exposure to violence are but a few of
anger management, peer mediation and
30 neighborhood Community Action Part-
Learn who your neighbors are and share
the important pieces of this complicated
conflict resolution. Students also learn how
nerships in Washington state. The group
responsibility for safety in your neighbor-
to build partnerships to find solutions to vio-
weloomes ideas and comments at 1-800-
puzzle. By inviting diverse interests to par-
hood. You can encourage local schools to
ticipate in the solution process, we gain a
lence in their school and community.
897-7697.
%
FROM
06/19/96 WED 18:41 FAX 202 514 6383
OVC
001
8
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
Office for Victims of Crime
FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION
COVER SHEET
TO:
SABRINA CORLETTE
OFFICE:
OFC OFC/WH /WH
FAX #:
4565709
DATE: 19 JUNE
FROM:
JANID OSBANE ADAMS
Office for Victims of Crime
Office of Justice Programs
Phone #'s: (202) 307-5983
Fax #: (202) 514-6383
PAGES:
9
(including cover sheet)
NOTES: ROUGH Rough DRAFT. IT is HEAVIER
ON Victims & LIGHTER ON PREVENTION
THAN is LCKE, BUT / MY To MAKE It ACC
CONNECT AT THE very LEAST, ITGIUES
you SOMETHING To work WITH. IF you HAVE
QUESTIONS, CALL us AT 307-5983 on LEAVE
A MESSAGE ON 616-3580. I'LL CHECK MY
$ GST BACK To you.
06/19/96 WED 18:41 FAX 202 514 6383
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002
I am so very grateful for the opportunity to speak at the
Mothers Against Violence in America's (MAVIA) first benefit to
support its youth violence prevention programs. Since December
1993, MAVIA has demonstrated to the rest of the nation how a
committed grass roots volunteer organization can find productive
solutions to address our epidemic of youth violence.
Violence committed against youth is an issue that is very
real to me. Every day, my husband and I receive letters from
child victims of violence, letters describing situations and
violence that would bring tears to your eyes. One very young
child living in a domestic violence shelter in Fort Worth, Texas
recently made a very straightforward, heartfelt request: "I want
you to have police go on the streets and check the houses once a
week for people who hurt people and children."
I wish that the solution to violence against youth was that
simple, but we know that it is not. But in listening to the
types of activities undertaken by this morning's award
recipients, we know that some strategies are working.
We can reduce violence nationally only when local grass
roots efforts begin building partnerships with law enforcement,
educators, criminal justice system personnel, health care
providers, local government agencies, community groups, and
businesses. It is heartening to see MAVIA and the whole Seattle
community leading the way in this regard. The list of those
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003
participating today represents a cross-section of the types of
community members needed to reduce violence -- important
companies and institutions such as Group Health Cooperative, the
Jones Foundation, The Seattle Times, PriceCostco, Boeing,
Seafirst Bank, US Bank, Washington Mutual, PEMCO Insurance, The
Weyerhaeuser Company, and Microsoft. I think I saw Norm Stamper
in the crowd, your outstanding police chief, whose crime and gang
control efforts have reduced crime and homicides in Seattle.
Innovative partnerships can yield some of the most effective
strategies for reducing crime and violence. Many of you are
aware of Seattle's Partners Against Youth Gun Violence, which
involves police, doctors, prosecutors, community organizations,
and the public school system to prevent violence. This program,
fondly known as "Cops and Docs," teaches middle school children
about the trauma of gunshot wounds and their dangers. I can't
help but think that programs such as this have contributed to the
41 percent drop in the number of incidents involving firearms in
Washington public schools.
Not that these encouraging statistics from the State of
Washington surprise me. Washington has a history of leading the
rest of the country in innovative ideas to reduce crime and
violence. Perhaps there is something in the coffee you love, or
perhaps Washington is blessed with outstanding leaders like Norm
Stamper, Alene Moris, and Pamela Eakes, but Washington has long
been a leader in anti-violence initiatives and services.
06/19/96 WED 18:42 FAX 202 514 6383
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004
My husband has recognized the efforts of two Washingtonians
in the past two years -- Marilyn Smith and Lucy Berliner -- and
has presented them National Crime Victim Service Awards, the
highest federal recognition for crime victim advocacy. These are
remarkable women. More than twenty-five years ago, Marilyn
Smith, deaf since the age of six, was brutally raped. With no
services for the hearing impaired, her recovery was long and
lonely. Honoring a VOW she made to herself, Ms. Smith has worked
since 1980 to provide deaf women and children who have been
violently assaulted access to a supportive healing environment
where they could receive understanding and appropriate services.
In 1986, Marilyn Smith founded the Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy
Services (ADWAS) which operates a 24-hour crisis line, provides
safe homes for battered women, and offers counseling to sexually
abused deaf children. ADWAS's mission is unique in this country
and probably the world. The program has developed training
programs for deaf and hearing crime victim service providers and
provides prevention and educational materials.
Lucy Berliner, the Research Director of the Harborview
Sexual Assault Treatment Center, has been a nationally known
expert on child abuse, especially child sexual abuse for over 20
years. Even with her many research and program development
contributions to the field of child victimization, she remains a
practitioner first, working in the "trenches." As a social
scientist and scholar, she has conducted some of the most
important research studies to date, helping the service providers
06/19/96 WED 18:42 FAX 202 514 6383
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005
understand the effects of victimization of children. Her award-
winning film "Double Jeopardy" for children going to court
continues to be cited as a model. She, like Marilyn Smith, is
counted among Washington's most innovative service providers.
You all know that I am fond of the proverb that "it takes a
village to raise a child." And yet, in many respects, you don't
have to look much further than today's recipients of the Youth
Peacemaker Awards and the "Legacy of Caring" Scholarships to see
that it sometimes also takes a child to teach a village. We must
never be afraid to empower youth to work for peace in their
schools, homes, and communities, and we adults would do well by
learning from their example.
Those of you who have worked with MAVIA's Students Against
Violence Everywhere (SAVE) program know this all too well. SAVE
empowers young people to become active in promoting peaceful
resolution to conflict, stress, and anger. These are ideas we
should encourage among all our school children.
President Clinton and I have seen other examples of youth
doing great things to reduce violence. Teens on Target, a
program found in Oakland and Los Angeles, California, organizes
gunshot victims to address the consequences of violence by
speaking at schools and counseling other shooting victims. The
victims, often young, paralyzed, and in wheelchairs, use their
leadership skills to encourage other young victims not to seek
06/19/96 WED 18:42 FAX 202 514 6383
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006
revenge, but instead to seek nonviolent solutions. They
sometimes work in hospital emergency rooms as youth who have been
injured are being brought in. Their interventions and workshops
in schools reach thousands of young people each year.
Since this morning is a celebration of individuals whose
commitment and dedication has made a difference in the lives of
countless victims of crime, I would like to take a few moments to
recognize in absentia the many crime victims around the country
who are among our nation's most effective voices against crime
and violence.
We think of people like Marc Klaas, who has worked to secure
tougher penalties for repeat violent offenders and registration
of sex offenders after his daughter, Polly, was kidnaped from her
own home during a slumber party and murdered by a paroled violent
offender. My husband just spoke with him last week following the
conviction of his daughter's murderer.
We think of Stephen Sposato, who worked so hard to help pass
the assault weapons ban after his wife and seven others were
murdered in San Francisco by an assailant wielding a weapon of
mass destruction.
We think of people like John and Pat Byron of Louisville,
Kentucky whose advocacy led to the development of a computerized
call-back system that notifies victims when their offenders are
06/19/96 WED 18:43 FAX 202 514 6383
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007
being released from jail. Their daughter, Mary, had been
murdered on her 21st birthday by a former boyfriend after he
posted bail on a charge of raping her. Although he had raped
her, stalked her, and threatened to kill her, no one notified
Mary of his release. Through the Byrons' efforts, the victim
notification system has been adopted statewide and is helping to
prevent violence.
We think of Frances Davis of Brooklyn, New York, whose three
sons were shot and killed in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Frances has
channeled her anger and grief into activism by founding an all
volunteer organization called "Mothers of All Children." It
supports and counsels survivors of homicide victims, and
organizes community violence prevention activities, such as youth
basketball tournaments called "Shoot Hoops, Not Guns."
And we think of the founders of Mothers Against Drunk
Driving who taught America that a loaded driver can be just as
deadly as a loaded gun. Largely through MADD's efforts, alcohol-
related fatalities have decreased by 31 percent in the last 10
years. MADD's achievements are truly remarkable.
It seems to me that, in many respects, MAVIA is becoming the
Mothers Against Drunk Driving of the youth violence issue. You
are changing attitudes that are changing behavior, and I commend
you for your outstanding efforts.
06/19/96 WED 18:43 FAX 202 514 6383
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008
I mention these activists to remind you that you are not
alone. There is a vast network of committed advocates, working
to reduce violence in America. Join with them. Draw strength
and support from them. Some of them, like the Byrons and Frances
Davis, have received Presidential recognition for their efforts.
But there are thousands of others like them who are working each
and every day to prevent violence in communities and its harmful
effects. You are a part of that vital network of service.
Although we remember the lives that have been lost and
damaged by crime, we must recognize how far we've come -- how
much we have accomplished in reducing crime and assisting crime
victims. First and foremost, the crime rate has been down for
the past three years. Although the rate remains unacceptably
high, we must be thankful that we are heading in the right
direction. Second, crime victims' rights -- once a novel idea --
are now a reality in virtually every state. About 20 states have
amended their state constitutions to ensure these crucial rights.
Victim assistance programs, which were few in number in the late
1960's and generally served rape victims and battered women, now
number in the thousands and serve all types of crime victims.
Twenty years ago there were few victim compensation programs.
Today, every state has a program to help reimburse victims for
mental health, medical, funeral, and other expenses. Today we
have a Crime Victims Fund -- money from federal criminal
offenders -- which has provided over $1 billion to crime victims
programs in the past decade.
06/19/96 WED 18:43 FAX 202 514 6383
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009
President Clinton and Attorney General Janet Reno worked
hard for the passage of the 1994 Crime Act, which is helping to
put 100,000 community police officers on our streets to fight
crime. The landmark Violence Against Women Act is the first
comprehensive federal effort to combat these crimes and includes
funding for a national domestic violence hotline. We fought hard
for funding of a number of prevention programs -- $6 billion in
prevention programs -- but these programs have been curtailed by
recent Congressional activity. We will continue to fight to
restore that funding.
We have come a long way -- and although we must never forget
the victims of youth violence, victims like Loetta Coston,
Antonio Terry, Amy Ragan, and Allison Barkley, it is also
important to celebrate our many accomplishments and the
remarkable programs that have been established for victims
throughout Washington and the rest of the country. I would like
to describe just a few of the innovative programs that illustrate
an important direction for the future.
(INSERT EXAMPLES OF ADMINISTRATION-SUPPORTED EFFECTIVE YOUTH
VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROGRAMS AND STRATEGIES.)
We must build peace together -- child by child, youth by
youth, community by community. We must do all that we can to
prevent violence committed against youth and by youth. The idea
of prevention, which has been demonized in some political
06/19/96 WED 18:44 FAX 202 514 6383
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010
circles, should never be considered a dirty word, but rather
something for which all of us should be proud to fight. We must
continue to try to prevent life-changing incidents such as the
Moses Lake shootings, or life-ending tragedies like the
accidental shooting of Alison Barkley. And when violence does
touch the lives of those we love, we must also be prepared to
respond compassionately to its victims.
On behalf of the President and myself, I thank you for your
tireless efforts to prevent violence. By all means, keep up the
good work!
MAY-08-1996 12:55
FROM
TO
12024565340
P.01
JOURNAL EASTSIDE'S AMERICAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
WEDNESDAY, May 8, 1996
First lady, Gingrich coming to Seattle area
By The Associated Press
a-head coffee social at the Sheraton
Tune
SEATTLE - First lady Hillary
Tacoma Hotel Convention Center, and
Rodham Clinton and House Speaker
at a $150-per-person dinner.
Newt Gingrich plan to visit the
Mrs. Clinton will be keynote
Puget Sound area. I
speaker at a luncheon June 24 for
Not together. however.
Mothers Against Violence in America,
Gingrich will appear at a May 19
at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel. The non-
campaign kickoff for Rep. Randy
profit group sponsors violence-pre-
Tate, R-Wash. He will speak to a $25
vention programs in schools.
To: SARA GROTE
FROM: PANE EAKES
456-5340
MAY-07-1996 15:50 FROM
TO
12024565340 P.01
FAX
Date 7 May 96
Number of pages including cover sheet 2
TO: SARA GROTE
FROM:
Pamela Eakes
MAVIA
105 14th Ave.
Seattle, WA 98122
Phone
Phone
206-323-2303
Fax Phone
Fax Phone 206-323-2132
CC:
REMARKS:
Urgent
For your review
Reply ASAP
Please Comment
Sere / This was in the PI. to day.
Usterday was Chellerequeq- - dialing
with thes reporter who said "I know
about HRC couing and I'm putturg
it islu Guas it could have been
worse- it was good Pow overall.
P.02
12024565340
AIO Seattle Post-Intelligencer Tuesday, May 7, 1996
Gingrich and
Visit: Hillary Clinton's speech not political, sponsors say
TO
first lady
From Page I
because I learned that Newt Gingrich
Cathy Allen predicted yesterday.
and - if enough money is raised to
ing the left."
will be permanent chairman of the
"When they make Hillary the butt
15 on the group's waiting list.
The House Republican leader
group that sponsors violence-preven-
Republican National Convention.
of jokes, it means I'm going to work A
"Mrs Clinton's contributions, and
has already set off one controvers
to visit here
tion programs in schools. The group
Three days of Newt, and we (Demo-
little harder to defend her,' Allen said.
her lifetime passion toward helping
twisting arms for Tate.
also has lobbied to pass and prevent
crats) take back both the House and
"There's a little bit of every
children," are obvious," Eakes said.
Last year, House Majority V
repeal of Congress' ban on assault
Senate," Dicks said.
woman at stake in Hillary," Allen said.
"We are honored to have her."
Tom DeLay wrote A letter to Wash
weapons.
But Republicans have been laugh-
"Here is a woman who put herself on
Tate is the kind of House fresh-
ton, D.C., political action commit
By JOEL CONNELLY
It will not be a political event. I
ing all the way to the bank.
the line, fought the good light, is doing.
man for whom Gingrich is crossing
that gave in 1994 to Tate's oppor
as NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT
have worked very hard to make this
At a January dinner in Seattle,
the work of the world - and has the
the country on fund-raising tours.
Democrat Mike Kreidler.
nonpolitical," said Pam Eakes,
Gingrich raised about $300,000 for the
respect of her daughter, and the
He has backed the GOP. House
After listing the amount that (
A pair of the nation's political polar
founder of the organization. "We are
state's seven GOP House members.
respect and love of her spouse. It is
leadership on a series of tough votes,
PAC gave to Kreidler, the letter as
opposites, House Speaker New Gingrich
working very hard on issues that
The state Republican Party began
what women aspire to be.'
ranging from stripping the Environ-
for donations to Tate. DeLay told
and first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton, will
promote the best interests of children.
dispensing the money, in $10,000
Mothers Against Violence in
mental Protection Agency of enforce-
PACs they had the opportunity
soon visit the Puget Sound area.
On things Ilke assault weapons, we
donations to each lawmaker, soon
America is the kind of organization to
ment powers to scaling back the Clean
work toward "B positive future ,
Gingrich will be making a "special
have been very strong."
after the dinner.
which the first lady has gravitated.
Water Act.
tionship."
guest appearance" at a May 19 campaign
The hunchean was sold out even
"He raises money and excltes the
Its June 24 benefit will honor
Tate has championed legislation to
He said giving to Tate was
kickoff for Rep. Randy Tate, R-Wash. He
before Clinton's appearance was se-
grass roots," said John Carlson, KVI
cured, Eakes added. It is possible,
talk show host. Carison was master of
three young people for their roles in
prohibit all groups that receive federal
sonally important" to himself
will speak to a $150-per-person dinner and
promoting nonviolence. It will also
money from lobbying federal, state
other members of the House Rept
a $25-n-head coffee social.
however, that the first lady will make
ceremonies at a Gingrich rally in
present "Legacy of Caring" scholar-
and local governments. The prohibi-
can leadership.
"We need to show Speaker Gingrich
other public appearances during her
January that drew three times as
that Republicans are ready for the 1996
many people as GOP presidential
ships to three graduating high school
tion would extend to all forms of
Tate has received more 1
stay.
candidate Bob Dole did in March.
seniors.
political advocacy, Including attempts
$232,000 from political action comi
election battle, and stand united behind
Both Gingrich and Hillary Clinton
have served as political lightning rods,
Hillary Clinton Is a premier target
The luncheon's proceeds will go to
to influence public opinion.
tees during the 1996 election a
what Republicans are trying to accomplish
mobilizing both opponents and sup-
support violence prevention programs
The proposal is a favorite of
making him one of the top 15 Ho
in Congress," Tate said in a letter 10
of conservative talk show hosts and
freshman recipients of PAC dollars
FROM
keynoters at Republican gatherings.
under way in 32 Washington schools
Gingrich, who describes It as "defund-
financial backers.
porters.
Washington, D.C., political analyst
"I love it! 1 love it!" Demo-
"Hillary could be faced with Three
Charles Cook has rated Tate's re-election
cratic Rep. Norm Dicks said yester-
strikes and you're out' before Election
race against Democratic state Sen. Adam
day when told Gingrich would make
Day," Carlson told a recent kickoff
Smith as a "tossup." Tate has repeatedly
his second visit of the year to Wash-
breakfast for Rep. Jennifer Dunn, R.
received help from the House Republican
Ington.
Wash., referring to the Whitewater
leadership.
Both regional and national polls
and Travelgate probes.
Clinton will appear as keynote speaker
have shown Gingrich with approval
As warm-up act for Dole's March
MAY-07-1996 15:50
at a benefit luncheon June 24 for Mothers
ratings of 25 percent to 30 percent.
rally, KVI host Kirby Wilbur joked
Against Violence in America at the Shera-
Upwards of 60 percent disapprove of
about the first lady's hair styles and
ton Seattle Hotel.
his performance RS House speaker.
ridiculed R visit to U.S. peacekeeping
She will be supporting a nonprofit
Dicks was full of one-liners about
(roops in Bosnia by Clinton and her
Gingrich at & breakfast fund-raiser
daughter, Chelsea.
See VISIT. Page A10
yesterday.
Such shots will backfire with
"If I'm smiling this morning, it's
women voters, Democratic consultant