Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the Prison Rape Elimination Act

“PREA was established with the goal of eradicating sexual assault at federal, state, and local correctional facilities, nationwide. That mission remains just as critical today as it did when the PREA was enacted 20 years ago.”

-Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco

“Relentless pursuit of the promise of PREA is a top priority for me, and for all of us here at the Department, as I know it is for everyone here today. We are gathered to acknowledge the great work that has been done in pursuit of the PREA mission — but we are also gathered to recognize how much remains to be done — how much work we all must still do to eradicate sexual assault from our prisons and to ensure the safe and humane treatment of every person in confinement.”

-Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco

“PREA is now deeply ingrained as part of the language used in these fields. And in my visits to prisons and jails, I can almost always see the presence — and impact — of PREA implementation efforts that are setting a new tone and making a difference. People in facilities...are communicating about sexual safety, setting clear expectations and committing to continued progress. Most facilities have prominently posted PREA information, emphasizing the agency’s zero tolerance policy and explaining how allegations can be reported and support services can be accessed by survivors.”

-Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs Amy Solomon

“But make no mistake: we are not there yet. Across the nation, we continue to see tragic news stories about sexual victimization in prisons, jails and juvenile settings. These stories serve as stark and disturbing reminders of the hard work that remains in front of us, and why it is so essential. And at the Department of Justice, we want to know what we can do to support you and your colleagues in advancing this work nationwide.”

-Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs Amy Solomon