UNIDOS Against Domestic Violence - Domestic Violence in the Latino community

Domestic Violence in the Latino community

National statistics show that approximately 1 in 4 (23.4%) of Latinas report that they have been abused at some point in their lifetime, with a slightly lower rate (1 in 5) for Latinas living in rural areas (1)
Results from the National Survey on Violence against Women in Mexico reported that 21.5% (1 in 5) had experienced violence within the last 12 months (2)
According to statistics from UNIDOS from 2001-2007, emotional abuse appears to be the most frequent, followed by physical abuse. Sexual abuse is also present and appears to have been increasing in severity over the last 2 years. (3)
Latina survivors of domestic violence appear to be younger, poorer and less educated than White women, although domestic violence crosses all age and socioeconomic levels (4)
Research shows that there are stressors specific to the immigrant experience which can increase the risk for domestic violence (5)
Prejudice, lack of English proficiency, and fear are all barriers that keep Latina immigrant survivors from accessing domestic violence services(6)
Immigrant survivors of domestic violence (regardless of immigration status) have legal rights to shelter, restraining orders, and other services that can help them access safety.
Immigrant survivors of domestic violence should receive information regarding their rights under the provisions of the Violence Against Women Act