This time of year, people tend to talk about what makes a good “beach read.” Before you slip into a topic that takes you miles away from reality, I ask that you consider an important real-life read from the pages of the Independent Weekly.
Writer Samiha Khanna has drafted a compelling look at the recent spike in domestic violence incidents in Wake County, especially among our immigrant population. While this trend bears some familiar characteristics – numbers tend to escalate during difficult economic times, as well as when the temperatures rise – the challenges experienced by women with language/cultural barriers and limited awareness of resources is especially troubling.
The N.C. Council for Women/Domestic Violence Commission is dedicated to providing grant funding to qualified local organizations that provide direct services to women in need. There has been an increase in the number of agencies that provide services to women who only communicate in their native languages – a vital link since cultural barriers often make these women reluctant to step outside of their homes to seek relief from the physical or emotional abuse taking place inside.
Since many affected women are not in the workforce and are unaware of local resources – or doubt the validity of their concerns because abuse may be an ingrained cultural experience – they are more likely to trust and accept assistance from those within their native country network. Talking with a counselor in Spanish, or communicating online in Korean, greatly increases the chances of their escaping violence and integrating into their new community.
The Council for Women encourages all women and girls who have experienced domestic violence to seek help by calling a community resource or us at 919-733-2455 (toll-free, 1-877-502-9898). No matter what words or language you use, your concerns will be heard.