Sudbury and Area Victim Services (SAVS) is shining a light on the experiences of Black communities facing intimate partner violence (IPV), particularly families of African heritage and newcomers who encounter unique, layered barriers when seeking safety.
Thriving African Families (TAF), a nonprofit serving “families of African heritage in the Greater Sudbury Area,” focuses on cultural empowerment, trauma-informed support, and community-centred programming. Founder and executive director Dokun Nochirionye, known as Mrs. Noch, notes their work includes “parenting support, youth leadership development, cultural literacy, seniors programs and mental wellness,” all designed to ensure families “feel seen, valued, and supported as they navigate life in a new environment.”
Noch explains that while IPV exists across all communities, for newcomers, “the layers are deeper and more complex.” Cultural stigma, isolation, mistrust of systems, language barriers, and economic dependence can “create a perfect storm where IPV can be hidden, minimized, or normalized, making access to safety much more difficult.”
“Immigration status can be one of the most delicate barriers for newcomer families. Abusive partners may use uncertainty around paperwork or legal processes as a tool of control, creating fear and making it harder for individuals to seek help. Combined with housing challenges, financial pressures, limited awareness of rights, and the desire to protect privacy, the path to safety can feel overwhelming. With the right support, however, families can navigate these obstacles and move toward stability and healing,” Noch adds.
Adebola Adefioye, founder and executive director of the Afro Women and Youth Foundation (AWYF), points out that IPV is also shaped by “migration journeys, systemic inequities, and cultural expectations.” Newcomers may face “language challenges, limited access to culturally safe supports, financial pressures, lack of family or social networks, and fear or mistrust of institutions.” She emphasizes that these challenges are compounded by systemic racism and a lack of representation in services.
Both leaders highlight the importance of culturally specific supports. “Community connection is often the difference between a survivor remaining in danger or finding safety,” Noch notes. Adefioye adds that “when survivors can access culturally responsive support where they feel seen and understood, they are more likely to seek help and feel safe.”
Programs such as AWYF’s Women’s Wellness & Vocational Circle, Safe Space Circle, and youth advocacy initiatives are building trust and belonging. Adefioye observes “more people open up and share their experiences,” as well as newcomer women “moving from challenging situations to stability by securing housing, employment, or education.”
Both organizations also point to emerging hope. Noch highlights growing partnerships, youth leadership, and community leaders “openly addressing IPV and promoting non-violence.” Adefioye underscores that increased advocacy and engagement show “healing and prevention are collective responsibilities.”
Their message to those struggling in silence is clear. “You are not alone. Your safety and wellbeing matter,” Noch stresses. Adefioye adds: “Speaking up is not weakness, it is courage. Your story matters, your voice has power, and your life has value.”
If you or someone you know needs support, SAVS is here to help.
- Visit: savs.ca
- 24/7 Crisis Line: 705-522-6970
- Email: [email protected]
Confidential, culturally safe support is available. You are not alone.