In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, MIRA would like to uplift some of our member organizations working on the frontlines to support survivors of domestic violence.
Uncertain immigration status can and often is weaponized by abusers in situations involving domestic violence. In mixed-status families, survivors face threats of having their citizen children taken away, of being placed in detention and unable to care for their children or other vulnerable family members, or of being deported and separated from their families for what could be years. Those who are not actively employed, whether as a result of needing to focus on caregiving or due to lacking work authorization, may lack access to resources or money independent of their abuser. If they do not have extended family nearby, as is the case with many who move to the U.S. from abroad, they have no support system or safe haven to turn to. The choice becomes an impossible one: endanger myself and possibly my children at the hands of my abuser, or endanger myself and possibly my children at the hands of immigration enforcement.
“Policies that blur the lines between federal immigration enforcement and community law enforcement endanger the safety of victims of sexual and domestic violence, their families, and all communities. Immigrant survivors’ access to justice is blocked when they cannot safely contact community law enforcement without fear of deportation—and thus separation from their families and communities—because of their immigration status. These policies embolden abusers to use documentation status and deportation as a threat and tactic of abuse to maintain power and control. Policies and practices that do not center the realities of immigrants consequently create risks and dire consequences for immigrants.”
Hema Sarang-Sieminski, Esq. – Deputy Director, Jane Doe, Inc.
2023 Testimony in support of S1510/H2288 An Act to protect the civil rights and safety of all Massachusetts residents
This is why we urgently need legislators to pass the Safe Communities Act – so community members aren’t afraid to report violence against themselves or violence they have witnessed against others. When they can be certain that local police are focused on protecting the safety of the communities they serve, and not taking on the work of federal immigration enforcement instead, victims and witnesses of crimes can come forward without fear of being penalized for doing so.
Several of MIRA’s member organizations provide survivors with a safe haven and the resources and support they need to escape dangerous situations. In this time of increased uncertainty, fear, and vulnerability, we acknowledge and honor their vital work. We hope you will consider supporting these organizations as well as asking your legislators to sponsor the Safe Communities Act. Write to Your Legislator Now
If you or someone you know is the victim of domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1800799SAFE or text START to 88788