Out of the Shadows: Supporting Immigrant Survivors of Domestic Violence

What happens when abuse victims feel like they can’t call for help?

survivorFor many immigrant women who lack legal status, this is a horrifying daily reality. Undocumented women are already vulnerable to exploitation as they navigate a life in the shadows. For those who are being abused, language and cultural barriers can make it challenging to work with the police. Many abusers threaten to have women deported, fired, or separated from their children if they speak out. Fear and uncertainty keeps these women from raising their voices – and makes it even more vital that bystanders like you know how to respond. — Sojourners

On October 28, 2015, Sojourners hosted a webinar on domestic violence and immigration issues. The survivor who courageously shared her story is a client of Northern Illinois JFON. Hear her story in her own voice on the SoundCloud audio of the call from 2:40 to 11:30.

The following is the call’s agenda and the people on the call:

  • Welcome & Overview — Elaina Ramsey, Women & Girls Campaign Director, Sojourners
  • A Life in the Shadows — Yazmin, Survivor Leader
  • Legal Issues Impacting Survivors — Dominique Poirier, Director of Legal Services, Just Neighbors
  • Domestic Violence and Immigration Policy — Marium Durrani, Public Policy Attorney, National Network to End Domestic Violence
  • Client Services for Immigrant Survivors — Karen Romero, Social Services Director, Ayuda

Here is the presentation in PDF. And here is the SoundCloud audio of the call.