Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior in a relationship used to gain or maintain “power and control” over an intimate partner.

Abuse is physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure or wound someone.

Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. It can happen to couples who are married, living together or who are dating. Domestic violence can affect all individuals regardless of socioeconomic backgrounds, education levels race, belief, religion, genderor sexual orientation.

Latinas often have taboos regarding their sexuality, gender role issues and the importance of ‘familia’. A strong sense of culture keeps them from ‘betraying’ long-standing values. They believe their family obligations always come first no matter what personal animosities may exist. In Mexico, there is a law called ‘abondono de hogar’ which punishes women who leave their homes, even to flee violence. Women convicted of ‘abandoning the home’ often lose custody of their children. Women who are deeply religious may believe a violent spouse is their ‘cross to bear’. (taken from Mujeres Latinas en Accion).

From Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America and now the majority of the U.S., Alianza - The National Latino Alliance for the Elimination of Domestic Violence is here to provide our expertise required in order to address these diverse groups and their specific needs.

According to NALEO, since 2000, 1 in 2 new US citizens is of Latino origin. Spanish is also the 2nd most common language in the US. With a growing Latino population, it is more important than ever to have a national institute specializing in culturally appropriate services. Alianza is here for you!