National Latina Network

While the number of studies examining intimate partner violence (IPV) in Latin@ populations is growing, research on this issue continues to be limited in quality and breadth. We have compiled what we believe are the most current data on this topic and summarized it below.

Needs

The needs identified by Latina survivors point to the importance of culturally appropriate resources and approaches to assist Latin@ families experiencing IPV. Below is a list of needs identified by Latina survivors and community advocates¹⁷.

Cultural and linguistically appropriate services should include responses that account for cultural differences among Latino ethnic groups⁴³.

Information about:

• Rights as a survivor
• Legal services
• IPV
• Help when going to court
• English lessons
• Protection/safety
• Transportation
• Education for independence
• A place to stay
• Someone to talk to in private

Resources and responses that⁴⁴:

• Are in their native language
• Incorporate culturally specific spaces and providers
• Do not ask about immigration status
• Include space and services for children and extended family
• Address all genders in the community

Commentary

Despite the focus on shelters as the preferred mainstream strategy to assist IPV survivors, Latina survivors did not mention shelters among their most urgent needs. This finding should be viewed in the context of not only the potential unawareness of the existence of shelters in this country but also the reluctance of Latina women to leave their community for a variety of reasons. This in no way negates the need for Latina survivors to have access to emergency shelters and housing to address their experience of IPV.