Barriers for Survivors: Perpetrators in Power

June 13, 2023

Daya expresses deep concern and extends our support to the survivor shot by her husband, an off-duty South Asian Houston police officer on Monday, June 12th. While she is expected to survive, this incident yet again highlights the urgency of addressing domestic violence in our community.

Survivors face extraordinary barriers when reporting abuse, particularly when the perpetrator is a person in a position of power, such as a police officer. The fear of retaliation, disbelief, and mistrust of the justice system make it incredibly challenging for victims to reach out for assistance.

Moreover, in violent relationships, a woman is 400% more likely to be killed by an abuser if there is a gun in the home – this reality can no longer be ignored. It is crucial for our community to acknowledge and understand these barriers, showing empathy and support to domestic violence survivors.

How can we collectively foster a culture of trust, safety, and empowerment?

Build Education and Awareness: Increase your knowledge about the signs of domestic violence and the available resources. By educating ourselves and our community, we can recognize the warning signs and offer support to those in need.

Provide Empathy and Non-Judgmental Support: Believe survivors, avoid blame, and always keep information confidential. Understand the barriers and acknowledge how dangerous it is to flee abuse. Create an environment where survivors feel safe and supported.

Take Your Support a Step Further: Help survivors document their abuse and help them find helpful resources, like Daya. Never share what survivors tell you – this typically puts them at more danger.

Advocacy and Policy Reform: Voting for leaders and policies that prioritize the safety of domestic violence survivors is essential. By actively supporting legislation that funds domestic violence programs and holds perpetrators accountable, you create lasting change.

Daya stands ready to provide comprehensive support, resources, and assistance to domestic violence survivors in Houston’s South Asian community. We encourage survivors to reach out to our helpline at 713-981-7645 or visit our website www.dayahouston.org for confidential guidance and support.

Together, as a community, we can create an environment where victims of domestic violence feel empowered to break free from abuse and build lives free from fear and violence.