This powerful speech by Angelina Jolie about domestic violence resonated with so many

Angelina Jolie has once again used her influence for the betterment of all women and we couldn't be more thankful for a gem, such as her. In a video that has resurfaced, the actress delivered a moving and powerful speech about the impacts of domestic violence. The actor was advocating for the passing of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, which is intended to "prevent and respond to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking," per Congress. The "Maleficent" actress and a fellow humanitarian was clad in a black suit and pearls and raised her voice in efforts to the passing of the act naming it “one of the most important votes US senators will cast this year,” according to Hollywoodlife. 

“Standing here at the center of our nation’s power, I can think only of everyone who’s been made to feel powerless by their abusers, by a system that failed to protect them,” the mother-of-six said. “Parents whose children have been murdered by an abusive partner, women who suffer domestic violence yet are not believed, children who have suffered life-altering trauma and post-traumatic stress at the hands of people closest to them.” She also highlights the reason why some people find it hard to leave an abusive household stating that they have been "made to feel worthless" without the help of any governmental aid. 

“As survivors of abuse know all too well, victims of our failed systems are not allowed to be angry. You’re supposed to be calm, and patient, and ask nicely. But you try staying calm when it’s as if someone is holding your head underwater,” she continued “Try to stay calm when you’re witnessing someone you love being harmed. Try to stay calm if after you were strangled and you find the courage to come forward, you discover that your chances of proving the abuse are now gone because no one took into account the different ways bruising presents in Black or brown skin and they failed to check properly for signs of injury.” Jolie also spoke briefly about the parents who are persistent in their efforts to reform the laws after losing their children to domestic violence. 

“Most of all, I want to acknowledge, the children who are terrified and suffering at this moment. And the many people for whom this legislation comes too late,” she said, holding back tears. “The women who have suffered through the system with little or no support,” she concluded, “who still carry the pain and trauma of their abuse, the young adults who have survived abuse and emerged stronger, not because of the child protective system, but despite it, and the women and children who have died who could have been saved.” Before the commencement of the speech, Jolie also shared a photo of her and her daughter, Zahara Jolie-Pitt, as both of them were captured while looking over the speech. 

“I’m also glad to share in the advocacy with Zahara and for her presence to calm my nerves before today’s press conference.” Lastly, Jolie's speech has resonated with millions of people around the world, and with that hope in mind, we hope that this act comes into action and serves justice to the victims of domestic violence. The Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of 2022 (VAWA 2022) was signed into law by President Biden on March 15, 2022.