Refugees and immigrants face many challenges when coming to a new country. Domestic Violence (DV) sets up unique challenges for these communities. Some may fear being deported, losing custody, and even losing their homes. ECDC’s Safe Journey program takes a stand against Domestic Violence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Globally 1in 3 women have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime. Often times the violence and/or abuse goes unreported because of fear of humiliation and retaliation, enduring the abuse with the hope that
it gets better, and sometimes because they are financially dependent on the spouse.
Domestic Violence can not only cause physical harm but can lead to depression, anxiety sleeping, and eating disorders. In addition, children can be impacted by DV and this can lead to emotional and behavioral problems. In addition, the World Health Organization expressed that social and economic costs are associated with DV. For example, DV can cause the victim to lose their job, suffer from isolation, and have a limited amount of care for themselves and their
children.
ECDC’s Safe Journey program aims to aid those DV survivors and raise awareness among immigrant communities. The program refers to DV survivors (individuals and families) to counseling service providers, mental health counseling and to Social Service Agencies. Studies show that having a strong set of resources can not only aim to prevent DV from occurring, but
can also stop it from happening in the first place.
In addition, ECDC’s Safe Journey program provides cultural orientation on what healthy relationships and families are, as well as educate and inform on shelter providers for DV survivors. For example, workshops that empower individuals through training that aims to provide gender equality, and promote communication and relationship skills to couples.
If you, a friend or a loved one need Domestic Violence prevention/intervention services to feel free to contact Safe Journey ECDC- 703-685-0510 EXT 237
Jennifer Castillo-Molina
Intern for Domestic Violence Program Safe Journey ECDC
inth@ecdcus.org
References:
https://www.who.int/en/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women