Since 2000, Kiran has empowered victims/survivors by providing access to information, education, and other necessary social and economic support that best reflects each person's interests and needs.
Our non-profit serves and empowers individuals with backgrounds from the following countries:
Afghanistan
Bangladesh
Bhutan
India
Maldives
Myanmar (Burma)
Nepal
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
India
Nepal
Afghanistan
Myanmar
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
Bhutan
Bangladesh
Maldives
South Asian Victims of Domestic Violence
We often get asked, "Why do South Asians need their own dedicated domestic violence organization?" While the abuse itself does not manifest differently in South Asian communities, there are a number of elements of South Asian culture that complicate the identification of abuse and help-seeking. These elements include the stigma of divorce, collectivism, patriarchy, joint family households, and concepts of honor/reputation ("izzat").
These challenges leave South Asian victims vulnerable to multipronged crises like immigration-related concerns; physical and mental health issues stemming from the abuse; financial assistance for transportation, rent, or attorney's fees; childcare assistance; translation/interpretation; job search; transitional/permanent housing; and more.
Although domestic violence is rarely talked about in South Asian communities, it is a rampant and preventable public health problem that deserves immediate action. Domestic violence is more than just physical abuse. It is physical, mental, emotional, financial, and/or sexual abuse that occurs between people that live together, are dating, are married, or are related in some way. These forms of abuse can have serious and long-lasting impacts on the survivors, their children, and other family members. Although most of our clients are women, we serve men too. We understand that men face a separate set of challenges when they become targets of abuse.
Kiran is prepared and equipped to provide culturally and gender-competent support, as well as prolonged case management to address the unique challenges faced by each client.
South Asian LGBTQ+ Victims of Domestic Violence
For many Asian and Pacific Islander Americans, coming out is a lifelong process that can require a different approach because of cultural norms or traditions that emphasize duty to family and community. (Living Authentically as LGBTQ Asian Americans, Human Rights Campaign). While many coming-out stories involve tension among the family, LGBTQ South Asian-Americans say they often feel the need to create their own, culturally-sensitive space. This is true of teens, young adults, and adults.
South Asian Teen Victims of Domestic Violence
Kiran strongly believes in serving and empowering individuals of all ages, including teens. The Teens Corner provides our youth with information and resources that are beneficial to leading a healthy and safe lifestyle amongst their relationships. Our workshops focus on empowering teens and giving them the necessary tools to become strong individuals.
South Asian Elder Victims of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence affects victims of all ages. Find resources for elder victims of domestic violence below.