Response to Rivera's Article on Domestic Violence Against Latinas

Rivera's analysis of domestic violence against Latinas by Latino males addresses the problem as a Symbolic Interactionist, Structural Functionalist and Conflict Theorist. I believe, as Rivera does, that looking through all three lenses is critical to addressing and solving this pervasive problem. On the micro level she addresses the meanings behind the actions of both the abuser and the abused, as well as law enforcement. At the macro level Rivera addresses the functionality and dysfunctionality of the institutions, for example the criminal justice system and social services system. Rivera also addresses the conflict of the competing groups. Those with more power, English speaking vs. Non-English speaking. Politically, Latina women as a group have more barriers to overcome in accessing immediate help and permanent solutions to domestic violence. Rivera also discussed the competing group of law enforcement vs. the group of Latina victims of domestic violence. The first has all the power and the second is at the mercy of that power.

Rivera broke down her study into four parts. The first was to shed light on the topic. It highlighted the impact of culture and community, and language. The Latino culture has so much baggage to deal with when addressing domestic violence. The stereotypes, the patriarchal structure, and the pervasive idea that domestic violence is a "private matter" all inhibit successful elimination or reduction of domestic violence in Latino community. How this culture interprets their reality, the meaning of their actions, and the symbols inherent in what a woman is and what a man is all play a huge role in how domestic violence is addressed, or not addressed as the case may be.

In the rest of the sections of Rivera's study she addresses the statistical data, the legal system, and the Latino community's response to domestic violence. The study is timely and relevant. Rivera calls for change in how legislation, law enforcement, the criminal justice system, and the social service system deal with Latina victims of domestic violence. The data is supportive of the need for change. The explanation of how shelters are funded was equally important. Rivera addresses many of the roadblocks to successful mediation of this problem both on the micro and macro level.

As a Mexican-American woman I know, sadly, from personal experience how my ability to speak English, my higher education, and essentially living outside of the traditional Latino community puts me in a better position to solicit help from institutions if I were to ever need it. I've been pulled over and know that I was treated differently because I was able to speak to the police officer in English. His attitude completely changed after I opened my mouth. He had already made judgments based on my hair, skin, and eye color, as well as the Mexican station I had playing on the radio in my car. This example is nowhere near the traumatic event of being a victim of domestic violence, but it does give me a taste of what it's like dealing with the people who are supposed to protect you when you need it and the potential of being treated differently because of my ethnicity and culture.