Activists fighting domestic violence are planning to appeal directly to Beacon Hill lawmakers in Massachusetts for more support.
At its annual advocacy day today, Jane Doe Inc. and 57 other anti-domestic violence groups say they hope to meet with every member of the Massachusetts House and Senate to press for an increase in funding for what they call life-saving and life-changing services.
Activists said many of those programs are still operating below 2009 fiscal year levels.
They say they're also seeking passage of a handful of bills including one which would address employment protections for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and stalking — and a second that would create a felony offense for strangulation.
Activists say they hope to persuade lawmakers in part by telling the stories of domestic violence survivors.
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