October marked the 40th anniversary of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, a groundbreaking tenet of the federal government's response to domestic violence that continues to support the work of communities and organizations serving survivors and their families.

But we're not just celebrating a milestone. This special episode is an opportunity for listeners to learn directly from Director Shawndell Dawson about what's to come from the Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services (OFVPS). Tune in to hear Wendy's conversation with Director Dawson highlighting the possibilities for supporting survivors and whole families outside of criminal-legal systems, how OFVPS is partnering with and supporting the work of culturally specific organizations and tribal communities, and what policies and practices can lead to expanded health and economic access for families.

Virginia Duplessis brings a depth of wisdom to this episode to discuss the experiences of Black birthing people and the barriers they face in seeking quality health care – and how all of this impacts the safety and well-being of their children. As the Director of the National Health Resource Center on Domestic Violence, Associate Director of Health at Futures Without Violence, a mother, and a doula, Virginia offers multiple perspectives that underscore the need for us all to understand the inextricable link between gender-based violence and the high rates of harm of Black birthing people and their children.

Survivors are often prevented from seeking health care by the person using violence. This compounds with the fear survivors experience knowing that their children could be taken away (even immediately after birth) if they divulge that there is violence in the home. Systemic racism not only adds another barrier for Black birthing people, but is a root cause of the violence, harm, and even death they experience at higher rates due to racism in medical settings.

Where is the hope? Join us as we explore early prevention strategies, how providers can address bias in health care, and how we can better equip providers through universal education.

Additional Resources:

Safety and Justice for Black Birthing People Coalition

Ujima: The National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community

Black Mamas Matter Alliance

We are joined by Amanda Gould with the Los Angeles LGBT Center for part two on working with LGBTQ+ survivors – and more specifically, diving into the experiences of Black transgender survivors. Amanda shares that Black trans women have the highest rates of IPV and simultaneously have many barriers to accessing services. Amanda reminds us that trans people are often turned away from services and shelters and may also be mistreated during intakes and screening, contributing to experiences of trauma.

We also explore the current legislative climate of anti-LGBT policies across the U.S. and how they affect DV service provision. Amanda shares ways organizations and providers can be more responsive to trans survivors, as well as strategies for better serving the LGBT community. Join us in learning what can be done to advance access to safety and healing for trans survivors in our communities.