The Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers (MAPS) Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program recently launched a new committee to assess community needs regarding domestic and sexual violence and engage the community in prevention actions.
According to the group’s creator, MAPS prevention specialist Fania DaSilva, the main goal is to understand the needs and experiences of Portuguese-speaking communities in Massachusetts to provide better prevention of domestic and sexual violence. The committee works to identify, discuss and determine assessment tools, seeking to understand the right strategies for raising community awareness. The group also focuses on organizing new lectures, presentations, and educational and awareness campaigns.
“Very often, we see that information doesn’t reach people experiencing abuse, and many are left trapped in that situation. These are some of the topics we’ve been discussing at the meetings,” said Fania Da Silva. “Financial difficulties, fear, and the lack of shelters or a safe place are almost always obstacles for people from immigrant communities who need escape abusive relationships.”
The committee is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and includes immigrants from the Cape Verdean and Brazilian communities, including a survivor of domestic violence, an attorney, an entrepreneur, and other members from different professional backgrounds and walks of life. The group is recruiting Portuguese participants whose involvement in the community will be an asset to its goals. To join the team, please contact Fania DaSilva at [email protected].
The committee will soon launch a survey to better understand community needs and to identify trends, behavioral patterns and community values. The survey will be distributed over the coming months at events and social gatherings and will be used as a basis to create more effective action plans.
The MAPS Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program offers free, confidential and personalized services, crisis intervention, mental health and emotional support, safety planning, community prevention and education, information, and referrals to medical and legal services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. To learn more about the program, visit maps-inc.org/dvsa.
MAPS has served the Portuguese-speaking communities of Massachusetts and others since 1970. The organization offers free health and social services through its seven offices in Cambridge, Brighton, Dorchester, Framingham, Lowel, Somerville, and Everett. To learn more about MAPS, visit maps-inc.org.