"Silenced by Strangulation": Exploring the Few instances of Black Domestic Abuse Victims who come Forward

In a moving and powerful testimony, Nefertiti, a survivor of domestic abuse, has bravely shared her story in an effort to raise awareness and provide hope for others in similar situations.

Nefertiti's harrowing experiences began at the tender age of 11, when she was first sexually assaulted by a family member. The trauma of this event left her feeling frozen in shock, and she chose to keep the assault a secret due to fears of not being believed.

As Nefertiti grew older, she continued to endure sporadic incidents of abuse, including a second assault at the age of 13, this time involving a family friend in a car. The emotional toll of these experiences was immense, leading Nefertiti to feel choked into silence, especially due to the additional fears of not being believed as a black woman.

The effects of these assaults were profound, with Nefertiti describing how they affected her character and identity, leading her to hate herself and even contemplating ending her own life.

However, Nefertiti's story does not end in despair. She found solace and support in the charity Sistah Space, an organization established in 2015 to support Black women who are victims of domestic violence. Founded by Ngozi Fulani, Sistah Space provides a safe and welcoming environment where survivors feel like family.

Ngozi Fulani, the charity's chief executive, emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where black women see themselves reflected in those who support them. This is particularly crucial in the context of England and Wales, where black women are more likely to experience domestic abuse than any other ethnic group, with 33.1% affected, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Research by Sistah Space itself found that 97% of women did not believe they would be treated fairly by police or support services if they reported their experiences. This deep mistrust is not unfounded, as highlighted by Dr Alison Heydari, the Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner, who acknowledged the need for projects and improvements to rebuild confidence and ensure victims of domestic abuse have faith in the police.

Nefertiti encourages women who are survivors of domestic abuse to seek help and support, emphasizing that they will not be alone. She stands as a testament to the fact that help does exist, and that with the right support, healing and recovery are possible.

For anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal, help is available. In the UK, you can call Samaritans on 116 123 or email [email protected]. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.

Nefertiti's courage in sharing her story serves as a beacon of hope for other survivors, and a call to action for all of us to work towards creating a world where no one has to endure the horrors of domestic abuse in silence.

"Silenced by Strangulation": Exploring the Few instances of Black Domestic Abuse Victims who come Forward