Witnessing the harrowing experience of tennis player Emma Raducanu, who was reduced to tears after spotting her stalker amidst her game, it has become an acute reality check that we need to step up our efforts to safeguard individuals, particularly women, from such potentially damaging circumstances. As personal as this matter is, it alerts us to the scary fact that our current anti-stalking laws are insufficient.

Stalking is an invasive, painfully disturbing act, affecting an estimated 7.5 million people in the U.S. every year (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2018). Just last month, WNBA star Caitlin Clark experienced a terrifying stalking incident of her own. These are not just numbers; these are real people enduring real fear. The trauma bears significant, lasting impacts on victims' mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Our request is twofold. First, existing anti-stalking laws must be fortified, providing stronger protection to victims. This includes broadening the definitions and consequences of stalking, which will allow law enforcement to act more expediently and punitively. Second, we advocate for increased funding and resources for victim support services.

Let's make America safer for everyone by taking decisive action against stalking. Every single signature takes us one step closer to a nation where no one is living in fear. Please sign this petition to call on lawmakers to strengthen our anti-stalking laws.

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