Domestic Violence Awareness

Domestic violence is a widespread issue affecting millions across the United States; however, African American women experience it at disproportionately higher rates. Recent data shows that Black women are nearly twice as likely to face intimate partner violence as White women. This disparity is more than just a statistic; it highlights deep-seated social, economic, and systemic inequalities that leave many Black women vulnerable and unsupported.

One of the most disturbing statistics is that African American women account for 28% of women murdered by intimate partners, despite representing a smaller portion of the U.S. population. Additionally, domestic violence-related homicides are 21% higher among Black women than among White women, emphasizing the deadly consequences of unaddressed abuse.

Beyond physical violence, African American women report higher levels of severity and frequency of abuse, including stalking and psychological assault. These patterns are worsened by barriers to seeking help, such as mistrust of law enforcement, underfunded support services in Black communities, and cultural stigmas around asking for assistance.

Awareness is the first step toward change. By sharing these statistics and stories, we can advocate for more inclusive support systems, culturally competent services, and policy reforms that prioritize the safety and dignity of African American women.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org. Help is available. Do not suffer in silence.

Here’s to Your Health!