This handbook is designed to be used by advocates and professionals who work with those who are victims of domestic and sexual violence. It provides some basic information on how to understand culture and begin the process of challenging oneself to become more aware of the ways in which culture impacts our work and the lives of those who are victims.
Advocates and professionals are well aware of some of the struggles one can encounter when working with victims who appear different. The handbook gives some guidance on how to understand the complex ways in which people respond to intimate violence. In simple terms, the handbook outlines some basic ways in which to begin the process of becoming aware on both an individual and institutional basis. Neither of these by themselves can lead to empowerment of survivors. Therefore, the handbook stresses the importance of reaching out to and working collaboratively with diverse communities so that the issues of domestic and sexual violence can be owned by one and all.