“¡Si Podemos!”: Latinas Can Break the Silence About Violence [1, 5]
: Survivors often internalize the violence, believing they are at fault for the abuser's actions. This "self-blaming" is a primary deterrent for reporting to authorities [1]. Latina Abuse Alicia
Strong ties to faith, particularly Catholicism, can lead to shame regarding divorce or separation, keeping victims trapped in abusive marriages. ### Systemic and Legal Hurdles “¡Si Podemos
Latinas are disproportionately affected by various forms of abuse, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and emotional abuse. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), Latinas are more likely to experience domestic violence than women of other ethnicities. The same report states that 45% of Latinas have experienced some form of domestic violence. Abusers frequently use a victim's immigration status as
Abusers frequently use a victim's immigration status as a weapon of control, threatening deportation if they contact law enforcement.
Alicia has since been reunited with her family and continues to be a symbol of hope for missing children cases. More details are available at Other Notable Reports Alicia Carrizo:
