VSDVAA History

Our History

Virginians Aligned Against Sexual Assault (VAASA) and Virginians Against Domestic Violence (VADV) joined forces October 1, 2004 to become the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance (VSDVAA). The establishment of the new coalition is the culmination of more than four years of work, and marks the beginning of a new era of advocacy in Virginia.

Why did we merge?

Together we are stronger. As a new coalition, the Action Alliance embodies the combined forces of two statewide victim advocacy coalitions, each with a 20-year history of bringing people together to combat interpersonal violence. By combining forces to create a Virginia free from sexual and domestic violence, we strengthen our capacity to carry out our mission.

What will change?

Equity, Efficiency, and Economy.

Equity: Sexual violence and domestic violence share common roots; they both are used to hold power over and degrade one’s spirit. Despite these commonalities, efforts to end domestic violence have traditionally received more public support than work to end sexual violence. We will achieve balance (equity) in the work to end sexual and domestic violence.

Efficiency: 26 staff in 3 offices will be cross-trained to become effective advocates for both sexual and domestic violence.

Economy: By combining agencies, our administrative costs are lower, leaving more funds available to devote to advocacy and education.

What will change for members?

Your support reaches further.

• Your dues now sustain efforts to end both sexual and domestic violence.
• You are part of a larger, stronger voice to shape laws and other policies that support victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
• Your membership ensures that 26 staff in 3 offices work across Virginia to serve the needs of all members.
• You have access to a resource library that has doubled in size.
• You have more opportunities to become involved in this work by participating in any of our twelve committees and numerous task forces or caucuses. We particularly want to hear voices of those who have been marginalized in sexual and domestic violence work, such as people of color, men, and young people.

What can you do?

Take Action for a Safe and Violence Free Virginia: become a member.

Join us in our efforts to eradicate sexual and domestic violence by renewing your membership or joining as a new member, offering a monetary contribution, and/or participating in an Action Alliance council, task force, and/or caucus. If you have questions about the new coalition, or how you can further support Virginia’s campaign to address sexual and domestic violence, please feel free to contact us for more information E-mail.