Community
Linguistic Difficulties in Latinx/Immigrant Communities
By Valerie Lenis, Women’s Support Services
Studies have shown that “domestic violence is the main cause of injury to women – more than car accidents, muggings and rapes combined” (Barcaglioni). Members of the Latinx community, immigrants, and/or non-English speakers face additional obstacles related to their language barriers when trying to find help to escape or manage abusive relationships.
Lack of English fluency is often used as a tactic by abusers to isolate and trap victims. It can also limit or prevent victims from seeking support, including reporting complaints to the police, communicating with a 911 operator, or seeking services from domestic violence agencies...