The impact of Latina abuse is far-reaching and can have severe consequences for survivors, their families, and their communities. Some of the effects of Latina abuse include:

Latina abuse is a pervasive and often hidden issue that requires high-quality support services. By understanding the scope of the problem, addressing barriers to seeking help, and providing culturally sensitive and linguistically accessible services, we can work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for Latinas experiencing abuse.

Abuse thrives in isolation, and financial abuse is incredibly common. Survivors may be prevented from working, kept from accessing bank accounts, or denied knowledge of the household finances. Without independent financial means or a credit history, leaving an abusive partner feels like an impossible leap into poverty. What Does "High-Quality" Support Look Like?

Latina abuse is a significant problem in the United States. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), Latinas experience domestic violence at a rate of 18.3 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average. A study by the National Institute of Justice found that 44% of Latina women reported experiencing some form of violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime.

While the stories presented here are set in Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico, and the United States, the crisis of abuse against women and girls is global in scope. As CARE Australia noted in its campaign #ThisIsNotWorking , the International Labour Organization (ILO) has the opportunity to adopt a binding international standard on violence and harassment in the workplace—a measure that could offer hope to millions of vulnerable women worldwide, including those like Alicia, the Ecuadorian nanny, who had no legal protections when she was enslaved.

Latina abuse is further complicated by the intersection of racism and sexism. "It's like they see me as less than a person, as if my culture and my language are inferior," Alicia said, her voice laced with frustration. This intersectionality can lead to a lack of understanding and support from both within and outside the Latina community.

To combat Latina abuse, it is essential to establish and strengthen support systems:

Alicia’s hesitation to reach out reflects these intersecting obstacles. She worries that reporting abuse might jeopardize her husband’s job, lead to social ostracism, or even threaten her own legal status.

Your safety matters. There is help, and there is hope.

Understanding the scale of abuse among Latina women requires looking at the data. The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicates that approximately one in three Latinas will experience violence from a partner in their lifetime, including physical violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The Latine community experiences higher rates of violence than their white counterparts, and this crisis is not just about non-fatal violence—it is fatal.

Hiding passports, green cards, birth certificates, and marriage certificates in a safe place.