Statement by President Obama on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

Originally from: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2016/06/26/statement-president-international-day-support-victims-torture

On June 26, 2016 – the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture – President Obama issued this statement to the nation.

“Today marks the 29th anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Convention Against Torture. This is a day to affirm the United States’ abiding commitment to achieve a world without torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.

On my second day in office I issued an Executive Order reaffirming the United States’ commitment to the universal ban on torture, and we have worked hard every day to match our words with actions. We have owned up to past mistakes and helped advance humane treatment safeguards through the clarification and codification of our obligations. My experience as Commander in Chief has only reinforced my conviction that, the United States must never resort to torture. In addition to betraying our values and obligations, it would embolden repressive regimes, serve as a pretext for terrorist recruitment and violent extremism, and damage the United States’ reputation as a force for good in the world.

Today, we stand in solidarity with victims of torture around the world, and thank the many Americans who work tirelessly to achieve the goals inscribed in the Convention Against Torture. Their work embodies the best of who we are as a nation, at the same time as it makes us stronger and more secure.”

Join the Healing Society Today

You are not alone. We're here to help. We're a healing resource to survivors of torture and their families without regard to race, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, or economic or legal status.

SURVIVORS can provide specialized care and support to empower you in your healing journey to become a self-sufficient and healthy member of your family and community. We are able to offer services to torture survivors and their families free of charge. Professional interpretation is available.

To find out if you qualify for services, please call us at 619-278-2400 to talk with an expert staff member.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

SURVIVORS provides tailored individual, group, family, and couples therapy with licensed and licensed eligible mental health professionals throughout San Diego County.

MEDICAL SERVICES

SURVIVORS' provides support for Survivors with medical needs like finding a physician for general health care or connecting with a vision provider to receive glasses.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

SURVIVORS provides tailored individual, group, family, and couples therapy with licensed and licensed eligible mental health professionals throughout San Diego County.

PSYCHIATRIC CARE

SURVIVORS’ psychiatric services include a thorough evaluation of clients and regular follow-ups by a psychiatrist.

PROFESSIONAL INTERPRETATION

SOCIAL and PEER SUPPORT

SURVIVORS offers Healing Clubs to help counter torture survivor's feelings of shame, humiliation, and isolation. Activities have included art projects and nature walks.

FORENSIC EVALUATIONS

SURVIVORS coordinates medical affidavits and psychological evaluations to support our client's asylum cases. Medical and psychological evaluations are conducted by trained professional evaluators.

FORENSIC EVALUATIONS

SURVIVORS coordinates medical affidavits and psychological evaluations to support our client's asylum cases. Medical and psychological evaluations are conducted by trained professional evaluators.

CASE MANAGEMENT

Services to address essential needs such as food, clothing, and housing. We distribute blankets, backpacks and educational supplies, public transit passes, and hygiene items.