The reality of domestic violence in the disability community is one of sadness, tragedy, disconnection, and despair. However, there are also opportunities and large strides being made into, and addressing these issues that face the disability community. People with disabilities in the United States are three to five times more likely to be victimized.
Crime Against Persons with Disabilities, 2009–2019 – Statistical Tables November 2021 U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs Bureau of Justice Statistics
As a Black man with a disability, the reality of violence is ever present. Having and continue to work in violence prevention and survivor support space, it is apparent that even here ableism impacts how domestic violence is viewed when disability is a factor. Instances of abuse have a long history in the disability community, often connected to society’s perception of the worthiness of our humanity. How can we make sure that those people who are victims have the ability to seek help, remediation and get recovery? More importantly, how can we make sure that the Survivor network is actually fully accessible and inclusive for all those who have had unfortunate events of experiencing domestic violence and/or sexual assault?