Diversity and Domestic Violence
We know that domestic violence does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone regardless of race, gender, religion, socio-economic level, or sexual orientation. However, when a victim experiences further oppression from society as a whole (i.e. racial discrimination or homophobia) it makes it even more difficult to break the cycle of violence.
Same-Sex Relationships
Besides the tactics discussed in the power and control wheel, there are other ways that the same-sex partners may control one another. For example, it is common that the abuser will threaten to "out" his/her partner to their family or community if they expose the abuse. This fear of "outing" may also discourage the victim from calling the police. The abuser may reinforce the misconception that domestic violence laws will not apply to "them" and that no one will believe them due to their sexual orientation. WHBW welcomes calls from gay or lesbian survivors.
Women Who Are Immigrants and Battered
Battered immigrant women are some of the most marginalized people in our society. Despite the provisions in the Violence Against Women Act, women who are undocumented still have very few rights under the legal system and may risk deportation if they expose abuse. They may also experience racial discrimination, cultural insensitivity, and anti-immigration sentiment when they ask for help. They may not want to use law enforcement for fear of racial profiling. It may also be unacceptable to "air dirty laundry" within their community. Finally, an abusive partner can use all of these societal factors to threaten the victim if she attempts to seek help. WHBW can assist women from all cultures and backgrounds regardless of immigrant status and can explore their options with them confidentially.
People with Disabilities
A woman who is disabled is even more likely to be battered than an able-bodied woman. Often the abused is at the hands of a caretaker on whom the victim may depend for basic needs such as food and transportation. Women with disabilities are becoming more aware of their rights, and in increasing numbers, are seeking to escape violence. All of WHBW´s services are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Same-Sex Relationships
Besides the tactics discussed in the power and control wheel, there are other ways that the same-sex partners may control one another. For example, it is common that the abuser will threaten to "out" his/her partner to their family or community if they expose the abuse. This fear of "outing" may also discourage the victim from calling the police. The abuser may reinforce the misconception that domestic violence laws will not apply to "them" and that no one will believe them due to their sexual orientation. WHBW welcomes calls from gay or lesbian survivors.
Women Who Are Immigrants and Battered
Battered immigrant women are some of the most marginalized people in our society. Despite the provisions in the Violence Against Women Act, women who are undocumented still have very few rights under the legal system and may risk deportation if they expose abuse. They may also experience racial discrimination, cultural insensitivity, and anti-immigration sentiment when they ask for help. They may not want to use law enforcement for fear of racial profiling. It may also be unacceptable to "air dirty laundry" within their community. Finally, an abusive partner can use all of these societal factors to threaten the victim if she attempts to seek help. WHBW can assist women from all cultures and backgrounds regardless of immigrant status and can explore their options with them confidentially.
People with Disabilities
A woman who is disabled is even more likely to be battered than an able-bodied woman. Often the abused is at the hands of a caretaker on whom the victim may depend for basic needs such as food and transportation. Women with disabilities are becoming more aware of their rights, and in increasing numbers, are seeking to escape violence. All of WHBW´s services are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Did You Know? Abusers often threaten immigrant victims of domestic violence with deportation if they threaten to leave, complain about the abuse, or threaten to call the police for help.
Hotline: 802-658-1996
TDD: 658-1996
1-800-ABUSE95 Domestic Violence Emergency Hotline
Toll Free from anywhere in Vermont
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