Victim-survivors from hispanic and/or latin cultures face unique barriers when it comes to disclosing sexual violence and seeking support. These barriers span from the influence of cultural beliefs, harmful stereotypes from society, and inaccessible resources. The presence of such barriers is especially concerning when research shows that 34% of latina women and 33% of latino men have experienced unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime.² Additionally, 66% of transgender latina immigrants have also been sexually assaulted in their lifetime.³ 

There are a variety of cultures under the hispanic and latin umbrella, each with their own nuances. Many tend have a strong sense of family loyalty, feeling betrayed when family matters are discussed outside of the family, serving as a barrier when there is abuse in the family. There are also many cultural values that have persisted in these communities as a result of Spanish colonization, such as rigid gender roles and taboos surrounding sex. Latin survivors in the U.S. may not speak English as their primary language, limiting the resources that are available to them. Those with an unstable immigration status may also fear that involving law enforcement will put them at risk for deportation.

Survivors.org Community

As is the case with other marginalized populations, many sexual violence organizations do not have staff or materials that consider the experience of a Latin survivor. Finding shared spaces with other Latin survivors can mean the difference between feeling supported and feeling overlooked. In creating this space for Latin survivors to cultivate connection, we hope to dismantle stereotypes and foster true community.