Love Shouldn’t Hurt

No matter what your cultural or socioeconomic background is, you are likely to know or have been a victim of Domestic Violence.  

Statistics show us that one in three Latinas experience domestic violence in their lifetime, and 50% of those never report it.

Studies show that Men account for about 24 percent of domestic violence survivors. 15.5 million children that live in U.S. homes have witnessed domestic violence. 

If those facts weren’t staggering enough, a United Nations report found evidence of rising violence against Women in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and double the amount of femicides in Argentina during COVID 19 shutdown.

Latinos underutilize formal helping resources because of language barriers, cultural barriers and differences, and fear and distrust.

But there is help!

Understanding the Power Wheel. 

Abuse manifests in different forms. Abuse can be manipulation, maltreatment, neglect, violence, cruelty, harm, hurt, ill-treatment, and exploitation. The seven main ways it is manifested is; through physical, mental, verbal, emotional, financial, sexual and even spiritual abuse. Please take a look at the video that gives you an understanding of what a Power and Control Wheel is, and it’s tactics are. It breaks it down in 10 short videos. 

Overview

Physical and Sexual Violence

Intimidation

Using Emotional Abuse

Using Isolation

Minimizing, Denying and Blaming

Using Children

Using Male Privilege

Using Economic Abuse

Using Coercion and Threats

Resources. 

• There are agencies that will help you find shelter and temporary cash assistance, available at any Social Services / Human Services Agency.  If you are a victim of a Violent Crime, there are stipends to help you.

• There are local agencies that will assist you in completing the paperwork for a restraining order. If they are unable to match you with a pro bono lawyer, they will prep you in ways that you can help yourself, if you would like a long term restraining order.
• If you feel unable to represent yourself in court, you have the right to request a Public Defender. The protocols are different in every state, but every courthouse has a Self Sufficiency Center that can direct you to the right place.
• Most of all seek support! Support can come from a friend , a relative or a licensed therapist. 

You are not alone and Love should never hurt! We see you and we are with you! 

• NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

• NATONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE  1-800-656-HOPE(4673)

• NATIONAL TEEN DATING ABUSE HELPLINE 1-866-331-9474