Domestic Violence and Violence Against Children

The UAW is a union that bargains for families.  Any and all forms of domestic violence are a direct attack on our members and our most deeply held values.

Domestic violence can occur in any type of relationship.  It can be physical or psychological.  Its victims can be male or female, young or old, of any race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or economic standing.  The cost of domestic violence to our nation is staggering.  According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the social cost of intimate partner violence is more than $5.8 billion a year.

Domestic violence is very much a workplace issue.  Abusers often know where and when their victims work, making them and their co-workers vulnerable at the worksite.  Domestic violence also detracts from work performance, increases absenteeism, limits opportunities for advancement and may even impede the ability to hold a job.  Job loss resulting from abuse-related incidents further compounds victims’ problems in their homes, and reduces their ability to leave their abusers.  Unions can be the first line of support for members and their families by serving as a resource to help members and their families get access to the services they need.