Newsletter: Winter 2002: Policy Advisory Committee

The Alliance continues to strengthen its role as a leader in the creation of public policy on sexual violence issues. To achieve this goal, a Policy Advisory Committee was formed which met for the first time in November of 2001. The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Board of Directors on current issues involving sexual violence and the positions the Alliance ought to take in order to best serve victims, service providers, and New York City.

The goal of the Policy Advisory Committee is to bring together a group of individuals that is diverse in geography, culture, experience, and point of view so as to ensure inclusivity of a broad range of perspectives when considering how certain issues affect the New York City community. A Board member, Susan Xenarios, is the Chair of the Committee and brings the issues discussed at those meetings back to the Board for further review. So far, the Committee has grappled with such issues as the availability of Emergency Contraception for rape victims in hospital Emergency Rooms, the statute of limitations on rape, and sexual violence in the workplace.

Committee members are encouraged to raise issues the Alliance should address. For the more difficult and controversial topics, the Committee will bring in speakers and guests to educate them on diverse perspectives and to aid them in taking a position that serves the best interests of victims, providers and the community. This Committee is an important and exciting addition to the Alliance as we continue to grow and have a strong voice as advocates and educators for New York City.

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