A New Barrier to Safety: Immigration Status and Survivor Safety

Every October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month calls us to come together as survivors, advocates, and allies, not only to recognize the lasting impact of abuse but also to honor the courage, resilience, and powerful change that can happen when communities take a stand against domestic violence. This month is also a reminder that while meaningful progress has been made in strengthening protections and expanding survivor services, ongoing policy debates reinforce the need for continued advocacy to ensure that every survivor has access to safety, justice, and hope. 

Recently, a coalition of 20 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice, challenging new rules that would block undocumented survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault from accessing federally funded legal services through programs under the Violence Against Women Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and Byrne Justice Assistance Grants (Reuters). This legal challenge arose after the Department of Justice issued a directive requiring federally funded organizations to step back from programs offering legal services to individuals who are considered undocumented under U.S. law.

Survivors with uncertain immigration status often carry multiple layers of fear: fear of their abuser, fear of being reported to immigration authorities, and fear of being denied the very resources that could support their safety and healing. When policies exclude undocumented survivors, they send harmful messages. Trauma does not end at the moment of leaving abuse;  it lingers, especially when survivors are forced to avoid systems meant to protect them. Inclusive services are not only lifesaving, they are a matter of dignity and human rights. 

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let's not only shine a light on the harm of abuse but also commit to building pathways of safety, equity, and belonging. We all have the power to create communities where every survivor, regardless of immigration status, has access to safety and justice. Acts of compassion, solidarity, and advocacy matter, whether through supporting survivor-led organizations, pushing for inclusive policies, or offering resources that foster healing. By standing together, we move one step closer to a future where every survivor is seen, heard, and protected. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. The National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) can be reached at 1-800-656-4673. If you are in immediate danger, dial 911.