November 10, 2021

Rep. Castro: “Deeply Troubling and Tragic” Express-News Report on Family Violence in San Antonio

San Antonio – Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) issued the following statement on the San Antonio Express-News series “Nowhere to Hide”, an in-depth look at the domestic violence epidemic in San Antonio:

“The Express-News series “Nowhere to Hide” gives a deeply troubling and tragic account of family violence in San Antonio and shines a necessary light on the need for systemic change to protect people from abuse. Victims need to be supported, abusers must be prosecuted, and as a city we cannot accept the increase in domestic violence as the new normal.” 

“Two years ago, Congressman Doggett and I led a town hall, providing survivors and advocates with a platform to share their stories and push for reforms. In Congress, I’ve worked to connect the San Antonio’s Collaborative Commission on Domestic Violence with federal resources to help prevent, combat, and respond to domestic violence. Additionally, I recently secured legislation to ensure that states such as Texas certify and describe to the federal government their plans to coordinate with local support groups on funding opportunities — it is part of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act of 2021.”

“This report further emphasizes the need for Congress to pass the President’s Build Back Better agenda, which includes $7.1 billion for housing and supportive services for families experiencing or at-risk of homelessness, survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. As well as $30 million for the implementation of grants and services designated under the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act.”

“The scourge of domestic violence has plagued our community for far too long, and the pandemic has only exacerbated it. I commend the Express-News and the local journalists for their work to share domestic violence victims’ stories and hold the criminal justice system accountable for protecting the people of San Antonio.”