The Conference on Crimes Against Women (CCAW) is a cornerstone event for professionals dedicated to combating gender-based violence, but few may know the inspiring story behind its inception. This annual gathering brings together law enforcement, advocates, legal, criminal justice, and mental health and medical professionals to share knowledge, develop skills, and unite in the fight against crimes targeting women, creating a coordinated community response. Here’s how it all began:
The Mission and Vision
In the early 2000s, the landscape for addressing crimes against women was fragmented. While numerous organizations and agencies were tackling domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, there was a significant gap in unified, comprehensive training and collaboration. Recognizing this need, the Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support in Dallas, Texas, envisioned a space where professionals from diverse fields could converge to learn and improve their collaborative responses to these heinous crimes.
With this in mind, CCAW developed its mission to provide a national platform to disseminate the highest level of training, information, and strategies to professionals who are responders and advocates to victims of the many and varied forms of crimes against women including domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, and strangulation.
CCAW’s long term vision is to enhance collaboration among professionals to uphold women’s rights to safety and justice and eliminate violence against women in EVERY community.
The Founding
The first Conference on Crimes Against Women was held in 2005, founded by Jan Langbein, CEO of Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support, in partnership with the Dallas Police Department. The CCAW team believed that by providing intensive training, tools, and resources necessary to work in a coordinated community response to those on the front lines, they could enhance the effectiveness of responses to crimes against women, ultimately improving outcomes for victims.
Early Challenges
Launching the conference was not without its challenges. Securing funding, gaining the support of law enforcement, and attracting attendees required persistent effort. However, the CCAW teams’ unwavering commitment to the cause and their ability to demonstrate the conference’s potential impact helped overcome these obstacles.
Growth and Evolution
What began as a modest gathering has grown exponentially over the years. Today, CCAW is recognized as one of the premier conferences in the United States dedicated to addressing all forms of violence against women. The event now features hundreds of workshops, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities, drawing thousands of participants from across the country and around the world.
The Impact
The impact of CCAW extends far beyond the annual event. It has fostered a community of dedicated professionals who share best practices, innovative approaches, and the latest research. Attendees report that the conference not only enhances their professional skills and renews their commitment to supporting victims and preventing violence but also provides tools to bring back to their agencies and communities to make real and lasting systemic change.
Looking Ahead
As the Conference on Crimes Against Women continues to grow, its mission remains as vital as ever. The CCAW teams’ original vision of a unified, informed, and empowered response to crimes against women continues to drive the conference forward, ensuring that it remains a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change.
In reflecting on the origins of CCAW, we are reminded of the power of collaboration, the importance of education, and the enduring impact of a shared commitment to justice and equality. As we look to the future, the Conference on Crimes Against Women will undoubtedly continue to inspire and equip those on the front lines in the fight against gender-based violence.
Join Us
This year marks a significant milestone as we come together to reflect on two decades of progress, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to justice. Be a part of the CCAW journey by registering for the 2025 Conference on Crimes Against Women:
REGISTER HERE
