Breaking Silence: A Visual Journey of Resilience

A 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Initiative

Foundation Building Bridges…Saving Lives (SBBSL) and Prominent Women (PW) have partnered to create an impactful project for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Breaking Silence: A Visual Journey of Resilience harnesses the power of art and storytelling to raise awareness, amplify the voices of survivors, and foster community action against GBV.

The initiative features 16 canvas print posters that portray the inspiring stories of GBV survivors through photography and narrative, displayed in English, Spanish, and French. A Garden Tea Party & Silent Auction will accompany the campaign to raise funds for ongoing GBV advocacy and support programs.

By combining public art displays, a dynamic social media campaign, and community engagement, this initiative aims to:

  • Raise Awareness about GBV through personal stories.
  • Empower Survivors with vital resources.
  • Engage Communities to challenge stigma and inspire action.
  • Ensure Sustainability by securing funds for long-term support.

Join us in breaking the silence and building a safer, more compassionate Sint Maarten.

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Their Stories

Disclamer

All photographs and visual renditions featured in this campaign have been shared with strict consent and in complete confidence. In some cases, actors were used to represent survivors in order to ensure their anonymity. All scripts and narratives have been carefully redacted to protect the identities of the women who shared their stories.

These stories are real, heartfelt accounts of resilience and courage. We deeply appreciate the bravery of these women who recalled their experiences to inspire and empower others. Their voices serve as a powerful reminder that no one is alone, and together, we can create a future free from gender-based violence.

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Acknowledgement

Stg. Building Bridges Saving Lives (SBBSL) is a Sint Maarten-based nonprofit focused on combating gender-based violence (GBV) and raising awareness about sexual health issues among key and vulnerable populations. This project and webpage has been co-sponsored by Women’s Desk, a division of CDFHA, aims to improve the well-being of women, their families, and the wider St. Maarten community. , SBBSL educates and empowers communities through outreach on sexual violence prevention and STI awareness.

Resources and Support

Stg. Building Bridges Saving Lives: (721) 586 3371
Police: 911 / 542-2222
Safe Haven: (721) 523 6400
Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs: (721) 542 0640
Victim Support Services (721) 587 6477

My name is Issa, and I’m 19 years old. For the past six months, I’ve been living in constant fear because of a man in my neighbourhood who wouldn’t leave me alone.

Whenever he saw me—at least twice a week—he would touch me in ways that made me feel uncomfortable and scared. I wanted to resist, but he would threaten me, saying no one would believe me if I told anyone. I felt trapped and didn’t know where to turn. This experience has left me feeling afraid, and it’s made it hard for me to trust men.

Eventually, my mother found out. She was heartbroken and unsure of what to do, but she didn’t let him get away with it. She reported him to the police, and he was arrested.

Now, I’m meeting with a psychotherapist to help me process what happened. My mother is also receiving mental health support, and I hope this will help both of us begin to heal.

Issa’s story reminds us of the courage it takes to stand up against abuse, especially when fear and doubt make it seem impossible. Her bravery, and the support of her mother, show that seeking justice and healing is possible, even in the face of intimidation. No one should ever have to endure harassment or live in fear, and every person has the right to feel safe and respected in their community.

For anyone facing a similar struggle, know that there are people who will believe you, support you, and help you find the path to safety and healing. Reaching out for help may feel challenging, but it can also be the first step toward reclaiming your sense of peace and security.

Let’s stand together to create safer communities where everyone feels empowered to speak out against abuse and harassment. By supporting one another and advocating for accountability, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected.

If you or someone you know is experiencing harassment, please remember that help is available. There are organizations, counselors, and compassionate individuals who are ready to listen and support you. Together, we can build a society where no one has to face these challenges alone, and where every voice is heard and respected.

My name is Karen, and I am 25 years old. I’ve been married to my husband, who is 40, but our relationship has been challenging.

Several times a week, my husband takes his frustrations out on me when things don’t go as he planned. He often blames me, which leads to abusive behavior. He always chooses to do this in our bedroom, away from our children, so they are not exposed to it. In his own way, I believe he thinks he’s helping us or trying to improve our situation. The abuse is not as physical as some might imagine—it’s subtle but still deeply affecting.

Some people might think I need help, but I’m not sure I feel that way. This is simply how things have been, and I’ve adapted to it over time. Recently, I was offered support from the SBBSL and agreed to participate in a tele-counselling session, just to have someone to talk to and explore my thoughts and feelings.

Karen’s story sheds light on the quieter, often overlooked forms of abuse that can be just as damaging as physical violence. Emotional abuse can leave deep scars, affecting self-worth and creating a cycle that feels difficult to break. Karen’s openness in sharing her experiences and willingness to seek support are steps toward understanding and healing, even when the situation feels ‘normal’ due to long-term adaptation.

For anyone facing similar experiences, know that abuse doesn’t have to be physical to be harmful. Emotional abuse is real, and its impact is profound. Talking to someone, as Karen has chosen to do, can provide valuable insight and support, helping to clarify feelings and explore options for a healthier future.

Let’s continue to raise awareness about all forms of abuse, recognizing that everyone deserves a relationship based on respect, kindness, and understanding. No one should have to adapt to treatment that makes them feel less than they are. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a step toward reclaiming control and nurturing one’s well-being.

If you or someone you know is dealing with emotional abuse, consider reaching out to a trusted individual, counselor, or support organization. There is strength in seeking help, and there are people ready to listen and provide support. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered in their relationships

My name is Isabel, and I am 20 years old. I’ve gone through something very difficult to talk about.

Two months after my mother introduced me to her new partner, my stepfather, he began doing things that made me very uncomfortable and scared. It started with small actions—he would use pet names that seemed harmless at first. But things quickly took a darker turn. When my mother was at work, he would find ways to be alone with me. He cornered me and did things that no one should ever have to experience. He would tell me that I couldn’t tell anyone, especially my mother, and threatened to make me disappear if I ever spoke up.

I was terrified and felt trapped, unable to share what was happening. Eventually, my grandmother found out. She was so angry and hurt by what I had been through that she asked a cousin of mine to confront him. Things became violent, and he was hurt in the process. It felt so unfair—he became the one needing help, while the pain and trauma I endured seemed to be ignored.

Now, I am focusing on trying to heal, but it’s a very hard journey. I want to feel safe again and find a way to move on from everything that happened.

Silence can feel like the only option, especially when fear and shame seem overwhelming. But speaking up, even if it’s just to one trusted person, can be the first step toward freedom, healing, and reclaiming your power. Every time someone shares their story, it breaks down barriers and sends a powerful message: you are not alone. It takes immense courage to confront painful experiences, but in doing so, you may find a new strength within yourself.

By choosing to speak up, you also give hope to others who might still be struggling in silence. Your bravery can remind them that there is a path forward, that support is out there, and that no one has to endure pain alone. Let’s stand together, creating a safe and compassionate community where everyone feels empowered to express their truth without fear of judgment or rejection.

When we support each other, we’re not only helping individuals to heal but also fostering a world where everyone can feel safe, valued, and heard. Let’s be there for those who feel voiceless, showing them that there is strength in vulnerability and that their voice has the power to inspire change

My name is Sandy, and I am 29 years old. I never imagined my life would be like this, but this is my reality now.

Recently, I took my child to the hospital, hoping the doctors could help him. He was suffering from severe malnutrition and had been having seizures. The medical team did everything they could to save him, but he was too weak, and I lost him. Losing my baby has completely shattered me; it feels as if my world is falling apart, and I don’t know how to move forward from this pain.

Life at home has been a nightmare. My partner, the father of my children, has been violent for the past three years. He controls every part of my life, beating me with anything he can find. I am not allowed to leave the house, and often he doesn’t bring food home. My children and I are left to survive in whatever way we can, and it feels like there’s no escape from this cycle of fear and suffering.

During a recent meeting with a social worker at the hospital, I shared my story. She connected me with a shelter that supports women facing domestic violence. They offered a place for me and my two other children. This chance to escape has become my lifeline. I am terrified, but I know I must find the strength to take my children to safety. I want them to have a better life—a life free from violence and fear.

Every person deserves to live free from violence, fear, and control. Sandy’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the struggles faced by many women and children around the world. Her courage to reach out for help and take steps towards a life free from abuse is truly inspiring. It’s stories like hers that reveal both the strength it takes to survive and the resilience to seek a new beginning, even in the face of unimaginable loss.

For those who find themselves in similar situations, remember that there is help available. You don’t have to face this alone. There are people and organizations ready to support you, offering safety, resources, and hope for a brighter future. Let’s stand together as a community, supporting survivors and raising awareness about the realities of domestic violence. By breaking the silence, we can create a world where no one has to endure this pain alone.

Let’s honor Sandy’s bravery and the bravery of so many others by doing what we can to help those who are still struggling. Every act of support, no matter how small, makes a difference. Together, we can build a safer, more compassionate world.

My name is Liz, and I am 26 years old. I work as a housekeeper, and I never imagined that something so horrific would happen to me.

It happened on my way home from work. I was attacked and violated by a group of men. They raped me, one after another, without using protection. There was nothing I could do to stop them. When they finally left, they took everything I had with them, robbing me of the few belongings I had on me. As an undocumented person, I was too afraid to go to the authorities, fearing that I might be deported if I sought help.

I feel shattered, broken in ways that are hard to put into words. This doesn’t feel like a life I can bear anymore. I am desperate to leave Sint Maarten and start over somewhere else. I hope to reach another island, where I might be able to find some peace—a chance to rebuild and heal from this nightmare.

No one should have to endure such unimaginable pain and fear. Liz’s story is a tragic reminder of the vulnerability that so many people face, especially those without documented status. Her courage in sharing this deeply painful experience speaks volumes about her strength, and her hope to start over and heal is something we can all support.

For those who feel alone and afraid to seek help, know that you are not invisible. Your pain is real, and you deserve support and safety, regardless of your status or circumstances. By coming together as a community, we can work towards creating spaces where every person feels safe, respected, and valued.

Let’s also advocate for more inclusive and compassionate systems that protect survivors, regardless of their background. By showing kindness, understanding, and standing up for justice, we can help individuals like Liz find a path to healing and hope.

To anyone reading this who feels broken and unheard, please remember: there is a community of people who see you and care about you. You are not alone in your pain, and there is support available, even when it feels out of reach. Together, let’s fight for a world where no one has to live in fear or isolation.

My name is Sonia, and I am 25 years old. I came here from the Dominican Republic to work, hoping for a better future. But my life took a turn that I never imagined possible.

In 2023, something terrible happened to me, something I still struggle to believe. I met a man—someone I thought I could trust, even if only for a short time. But things went horribly wrong. He became violent, attacking me physically and sexually. I still remember the terror, the feel of cold steel as he held a knife against me, and the terrifying realization that my life was in serious danger.

After he was done, he took everything I had, robbing me of the few possessions I carried. I was left feeling completely vulnerable and powerless, as if I had lost not only my belongings but also my dignity and sense of safety. Now, I carry this overwhelming pain and devastation, feeling as if my rights and my worth don’t matter in this place.

I don’t know what to do or where to turn. I’ve been considering leaving, maybe finding a new place to start over, or even returning home to the Dominican Republic.

Sonia’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerability faced by so many who seek a better future but encounter unimaginable hardship. Her courage in sharing her experience shows the strength of her spirit, even amidst overwhelming pain. No one should ever have to endure such violence or feel that their safety, rights, and dignity don’t matter. Her story highlights the urgent need for resources and support for survivors of assault, regardless of their background or circumstances.

For those who feel lost or powerless after experiencing trauma, please know that your worth and rights do matter. Help is available, and there are people who care deeply about supporting you on your journey to healing and safety. Reaching out, as difficult as it may feel, can connect you with resources and a community that believes in your strength and resilience.

Let’s stand together as a community to support survivors like Sonia. By raising awareness, offering compassion, and advocating for comprehensive support systems, we can create a safer world where everyone feels valued and protected.

If you or someone you know has endured trauma, know that healing is possible. There are organizations, counselors, and compassionate individuals ready to listen and help you rebuild your life, wherever you choose to be. Together, we can work towards a future where no one has to live in fear or face these challenges alone.

My name is Arinia, and I am 29 years old. Recently, I found out that I am living with HIV, and it has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to face.

What makes this even more painful is the reaction from my own family. Since they learned about my status, they have been pushing me away. They don’t want me close, and they won’t even let me use the same cutlery. I can feel their fear and judgment every time I’m around them. It feels as though I am not only losing my health but also the support of the people I thought would stand by me.

I am still in the process of accepting and learning to manage my diagnosis, but the weight of this rejection makes everything much harder. I was told about an organization that offers counseling for people living with HIV, and I am hopeful that they can help me find strength and support as I navigate this journey.

Arinia’s story reveals the painful reality of stigma that many people living with HIV face. Her strength in sharing her journey, despite the fear and rejection from those closest to her, is deeply inspiring. HIV is a manageable condition, and it should never define or diminish a person’s worth. Yet, stigma and misunderstanding often make an already challenging situation even harder.

For anyone experiencing similar struggles, know that you are not alone. There are people and organizations ready to support you, offer compassionate guidance, and remind you of your inherent worth. Reaching out for help, as Arinia is doing, can be a powerful step toward finding strength, community, and acceptance.

Let’s stand together to create a world where individuals living with HIV feel embraced, valued, and supported. By educating ourselves and others, we can help break down harmful misconceptions and foster a culture of respect and understanding.

If you or someone you know is living with HIV, please remember that you deserve love, dignity, and compassion. There are people who will stand by you on this journey, and there is strength in seeking out a community that understands and supports you. Together, we can work toward a society where everyone feels safe and valued, free from stigma.

My name is Sister P, and I am 43 years old. I have been married to my husband, a pastor in our church, for over 10 years. Our marriage has been a long journey, but it has not always been peaceful.

For the first five years, I endured physical abuse from him. In the past 10 years, he has controlled me through psychological abuse. This is his way of keeping me in line, ensuring that I follow the path he wants. Sometimes, it feels like he is more focused on maintaining control than on the love and respect that should be central to our relationship.

I tried seeing a psychologist once, but I stopped because I was afraid they might suggest divorce. That idea felt too overwhelming and too contrary to everything I have believed in. But lately, I have been wondering if I need help—support to understand what I have been through and to find a way forward.

I was advised to seek counseling again, and I think maybe it’s time to face my fears and speak with someone who can guide me through this.

Sister P’s story shines a light on the hidden struggles many endure, especially when personal beliefs and societal expectations make it difficult to seek help. Her courage in considering counseling, despite her fears, is a powerful step toward healing and self-empowerment. Every person deserves to live in a relationship built on mutual respect, love, and support—not control or fear.

For anyone feeling trapped or unsure in their relationship, know that reaching out for help doesn’t mean giving up on your beliefs or values. It simply means choosing to prioritize your well-being and exploring ways to find peace within yourself. Speaking to a counselor can offer valuable support, helping you to process your experiences and understand your own needs and desires.

Let’s stand together to support individuals like Sister P who are seeking clarity, respect, and safety in their relationships. By encouraging open discussions and providing compassionate support, we can help create a community where everyone feels safe to reach out and seek the help they need.

If you or someone you know is struggling in a similar situation, please remember that seeking help is a sign of strength. There are people who care about your journey, and who can guide you toward a path that honors both your values and your well-being. Together, we can foster a world where every relationship is a source of respect and love.

My name is Paula, and I am 28 years old. For years, I held onto the hope that things would change—that my husband would treat me with the love and respect he once showed me.

During the day, he would ignore me, no matter how hard I tried to connect with him. But at night, he forced me to be intimate with him. At first, I went along with it, hoping it might bring us closer again, that it might restore the warmth we had before we got married. But instead, things only got worse. He told me to cut ties with my family and friends, isolating me from everyone I loved.

After seven years of living in this painful reality, I finally made the decision to file for divorce. It’s a new chapter for me, but it’s not an easy one. I am learning to cope with insecurities about myself and to rebuild trust—not just in others, but in myself as well.

Paula’s story highlights the courage it takes to leave behind an abusive relationship and choose a path toward self-respect and healing. Her journey reminds us that love and respect should always be the foundation of any relationship, and that no one deserves to feel isolated or forced to give up their sense of self. After enduring years of pain, Paula’s decision to prioritize her well-being and seek a new beginning is a testament to her strength and resilience.

For anyone facing similar challenges, know that you deserve a life where you feel valued, respected, and free to be yourself. Choosing to leave a painful situation may be difficult, but it opens the door to healing and personal growth. Rebuilding trust in yourself and in others is a journey, but with each step, you’re reclaiming your strength and peace.

Let’s stand together to support survivors like Paula, advocating for a world where everyone feels empowered to seek healthy, fulfilling relationships. By sharing stories, offering compassion, and breaking the silence around emotional and physical abuse, we can create a safe and supportive community for those seeking change.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, remember that there are people and resources ready to support you. You don’t have to face this journey alone—healing and hope are within reach. Together, we can foster a society where every individual feels safe, respected, and empowered.

My name is Dipti, and I am 39 years old. I have been in an arranged marriage for over a decade, and it has been a journey I never quite anticipated.

In the beginning, my husband allowed me to work, which gave me a sense of independence. But after some time, he decided I should stay at home to take care of him and our children, saying that’s what a “good wife” should do. Now, I am completely dependent on him for everything. He manages all affairs outside the home, ensuring I have little reason to leave. I feel trapped within these walls, with my life centered around his needs and the needs of our children.

The hardest part, though, is the way he speaks to me. When he is stressed, he calls me names, sometimes even in front of our children. This has been going on for years, and each insult chips away at my self-worth, making me feel smaller and smaller. I know that I should seek help, but I’m not ready yet. The thought of opening up about everything feels overwhelming, and I need time to gather the courage.

Dipti’s story sheds light on the silent struggles that many individuals in arranged marriages and traditional relationships face. Her experience shows that emotional neglect and verbal abuse can wear down a person’s self-worth over time, especially when they feel isolated and dependent. Dipti’s courage in acknowledging her feelings and recognizing the impact of these years of control and belittlement is a significant first step toward reclaiming her strength and sense of self.

For anyone feeling trapped or undervalued in their relationship, know that you deserve respect, kindness, and appreciation. Finding the courage to seek support may feel overwhelming, but remember that you’re not alone. There are people and resources ready to listen, support, and help you explore ways to regain your sense of independence and self-worth. Taking that step, even if just in your own thoughts, is a powerful start.

Let’s come together as a community to support individuals like Dipti, who feel invisible and unappreciated in their relationships. By fostering open conversations and offering compassionate support, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and free to live a life that honors their worth.

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional neglect or verbal abuse, consider reaching out for support when you’re ready. There is strength in seeking help, and there are people who believe in you and are ready to walk with you on your journey to healing. Together, we can work toward a future where everyone feels seen, respected, and empowered in their relationships.

My name is Anita, and I am 23 years old. I feel so alone, even when I am surrounded by my family.

For as long as I can remember, my parents and other family members have pressured me to live up to their expectations. They want me to have children, but I know that’s not what I want right now. This choice has only brought me pain. They call me names, exclude me from family events, and make me feel as if I’m not “woman enough” because I don’t want to be a mother.

The weight of their words and constant rejection became unbearable. I reached a point where I felt there was no escape, and I attempted to end my life. It was a moment of overwhelming despair, one I never want to experience again. Now, I am seeing a psychiatrist and working on managing my depression, but the pain is still there, lingering beneath the surface. I am trying to heal, but it’s hard when the hurt comes from the people who should love me the most.

Anita’s story sheds light on a reality that many people face—struggling to find acceptance within their own families, especially when they choose a different path from what is expected. It takes incredible courage to stand by your personal choices, even when those closest to you may not understand or support them. Anita’s journey shows that self-worth does not depend on meeting others’ expectations; rather, it comes from honouring your own truth and doing what’s right for you.

For anyone feeling judged or isolated for making their own choices, please know that you are not alone. Your value is not defined by others’ approval. You have the right to shape your life in a way that brings you peace and happiness. Seeking help, as Anita has done, is a strong step toward healing and self-compassion.

Let’s stand together to create a culture where everyone feels free to make life choices without fear of rejection or judgment. Let’s remind each other that it’s okay to want something different, and that real love and respect come from accepting and supporting each other’s paths.

If you are struggling to be understood or accepted, reach out for support from those who value you for who you are. Healing is a process, and it takes time, but there is strength in knowing that you are living your truth. Let’s support one another, creating a world where no one feels alone or pressured to be anything other than their true selves

My name is Hana, and I am 38 years old. I survived a marriage that broke me in ways I am still learning to understand.

For ten years, I was married to a man who treated me like his possession. He is a public figure, and I hold a top position at the bank, but behind closed doors, he would hurt me. He would beat me and kick me in places where no one would see the bruises, in areas my clothes could cover. Over the years, he isolated me, cutting me off from my friends and family. He made all the rules in our home, leaving me no choice but to follow. He even brought another woman into our lives, expecting me to accept it without question.

When I reached my breaking point, I filed for divorce. It was an incredibly difficult decision, but I knew it was the only way to reclaim my life. Now, we are in a custody battle over our children. I have been receiving psychosocial support for almost a year, and while the journey has not been easy, I am grateful for the strength I found to leave. I am learning to rebuild my life, one step at a time.

Hana’s story is one of strength, courage, and the will to rebuild. Surviving abuse, especially when it is hidden behind a façade of normalcy, takes an incredible amount of bravery. Her decision to leave a toxic marriage, reclaim her life, and prioritize her well-being and that of her children is a powerful reminder that we all have the right to live free from control and violence.

For those who may feel trapped or isolated, know that you deserve respect, love, and support. It may seem impossible to break free, but there is help available, and there are people who want to see you thrive. Reaching out for support and making the choice to leave an abusive situation can be the first steps to healing and self-recovery.

Let’s stand together in solidarity with survivors like Hana, offering them our support, understanding, and compassion. By breaking the silence around domestic abuse, we’re not only empowering survivors to seek freedom, but we’re also creating a culture that condemns abuse in all forms.

To anyone reading this who feels unheard or unseen in their struggles: you have the strength within you to take back control of your life. Healing is possible, and every small step you take is a victory. Let’s continue to foster a community where every individual feels safe and respected, so that no one has to endure this journey alone.

My name is Lupita, and I am 27 years old. I came here from the Dominican Republic, hoping to build a better life, but all I have found is pain and fear.

My partner has a problem with alcohol, and when he drinks, his anger becomes violent. I have lost count of the times he has hurt me, both with his words and his hands. I am constantly on edge, living in fear of his next outburst, never knowing when it will happen or how severe it might be. Sometimes, I worry that one day he will go too far and I won’t survive.

I have three children back home, living with relatives in the Dominican Republic. I miss them deeply, and all I want is to be with them again, to feel safe and free from this nightmare. But leaving feels impossible. I don’t have the money to return home, and I am afraid that going to the authorities could make things worse.

I feel trapped, but my heart aches to return home and protect my children. I just want to find a way out before it’s too late.

Lupita’s story is a stark reminder of the silent struggles many face, especially those far from home, isolated, and vulnerable. Her strength in enduring such difficult circumstances speaks volumes, and her yearning to protect her children and find freedom is something we can all empathize with. No one should ever have to live in fear, especially at the hands of someone who is supposed to care for them.

For those who feel trapped in similar situations, please remember that you are not alone. There are people and organizations that can help, and while it may seem daunting, reaching out can be the first step toward safety and hope. Finding the courage to seek help, even when it feels impossible, can open doors to resources, support, and a pathway to freedom.

Let’s come together as a community to support survivors like Lupita and to stand firmly against domestic violence. Let’s work to create safe spaces, build stronger support networks, and spread awareness about the resources available to those in need. By raising our voices and offering our support, we can help others find the strength to leave unsafe situations and move towards a life of peace and security.

To those feeling hopeless, please know that there is hope, even in the darkest moments. Together, we can create a world where no one feels trapped or powerless in their own lives

My name is Juana, and I am 43 years old. I came here from Cuba, hoping for a chance at a better life. I entered into a relationship with a man from Sint Maarten, believing it would help me secure my legal status. But now, it feels as if that hope has turned into a nightmare.

My partner constantly uses my vulnerable position against me, threatening me with the possibility of deportation whenever I don’t comply with his demands. He knows how precarious my situation is, and he exploits that power, leaving me feeling trapped and terrified. I am constantly walking on eggshells, afraid that any form of resistance could bring severe consequences.

I have no one here—no family, no close friends to lean on. I feel completely isolated, as if I am at his mercy with nowhere to turn. I desperately want to find a way out of this abusive relationship, but I am terrified that any attempt to leave might jeopardize my chances of staying in the country.

I am seeking help, hoping for guidance on how to navigate my legal status and find a way to free myself from this situation without losing the life I have tried so hard to build.

Juana’s story reveals a painful reality that many immigrants face: the fear of losing everything they’ve worked for and the isolation that can come with being in a new country without a support system. Her courage in sharing her struggle shines a light on the silent abuse that so many endure, especially when their legal status is used as a weapon against them. No one should ever be forced to live in fear of deportation for simply wanting to be treated with respect and dignity.

For those who find themselves in similar situations, know that you are not alone. There are people and organizations dedicated to helping those in vulnerable positions navigate their legal status and find safe ways out of abusive relationships. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and free, regardless of your immigration status. Reaching out for help, even when it feels risky, can open up options for safety and support.

Let’s stand together as a community to support immigrants and those facing exploitation. By fostering understanding, offering guidance, and advocating for fair and safe treatment, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals like Juana who have come here seeking a better future.

If you feel trapped or isolated, please remember that there is help available, and you don’t have to endure this alone. Together, we can work towards a world where every person feels protected and empowered, regardless of where they come from.

My name is Isabel, and I am 28 years old. I am originally from Venezuela, and I am about six weeks pregnant. What should be a hopeful time in my life has instead become a period filled with worry and pain.

My partner controls every aspect of our finances, leaving me with nothing of my own. This financial control means I can’t even afford basic prenatal care, let alone the support I need to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Alongside this, the emotional abuse I endure has left me feeling isolated and unsupported. I constantly worry about the toll this is taking on my mental health and how it might affect my unborn child.

I want to be strong and create a safe environment for my baby, but I feel so overwhelmed. The lack of financial and emotional support has left me struggling to cope, unsure of how to move forward. I need help—both financial assistance for prenatal care and emotional support to manage the stress and challenges I’m facing.

Isabel’s story is a reminder of the hidden struggles that many expectant mothers face, especially those who are financially controlled and emotionally isolated. Pregnancy should be a time of hope and excitement, yet for Isabel, it’s clouded by worry, stress, and a lack of essential support. No one should have to navigate this journey alone, and every mother deserves access to basic prenatal care, emotional support, and the resources needed to ensure her well-being and that of her child.

For those who find themselves in similar situations, remember that there are people and organizations that can offer assistance. Reaching out for help, even when it feels difficult, can provide the support and guidance you need. You are not alone, and there is hope for a brighter and healthier future for both you and your baby.

Let’s come together as a community to stand with women like Isabel. Let’s advocate for accessible prenatal care, financial empowerment, and emotional support for mothers everywhere. Together, we can work to break down the barriers that prevent women from experiencing pregnancy with the dignity and care they deserve.

If you or someone you know is struggling with financial or emotional control, reach out. There are resources, compassionate people, and supportive communities ready to help you regain control and find the support you need. Let’s ensure that every expectant mother has a safe, supportive environment in which to bring new life into the world.

My name is Jesenia, and I am 38 years old. I came here from the Dominican Republic to work as a domestic help, hoping to build a better life. But instead, I found myself living a nightmare.

My employer would touch me in ways that were wrong, forcing himself on me without my consent. Each time, I felt completely powerless and terrified, not knowing how to protect myself or where to turn for help. I kept it to myself, afraid that speaking up might cost me my job or lead to judgment for something that wasn’t my fault.

The abuse has left deep scars on my sense of safety and well-being. I feel isolated and fearful, carrying the weight of this trauma every day. I have been offered counseling to help me start healing, and I am grateful for this support. I am hopeful that, in time, I can rebuild my life and find peace.

Jesenia’s story highlights the painful reality many domestic workers face, often enduring abuse in silence out of fear and isolation. Her courage in seeking help and beginning the journey toward healing is a powerful reminder that no one should have to face such hardship alone. Every person deserves respect, safety, and dignity in their workplace and in life.

For anyone experiencing similar struggles, please know that there is help available. Reaching out for support can be the first step toward reclaiming your sense of safety and well-being. You are not defined by the actions of others, and you have the right to live without fear or shame.

As a community, we can stand with survivors like Jesenia, advocating for safe and respectful working conditions for all. Let’s support organizations and initiatives that offer resources, counseling, and protection to those in vulnerable situations. By standing together, we can create a world where everyone feels empowered to seek help and where abuse is met with zero tolerance.

If you or someone you know is facing abuse, please reach out to supportive individuals or organizations. Healing is possible, and there are people ready to help you find peace and strength. Let’s continue to work toward a society where every individual feels safe, respected, and valued.