In response to: “Intimate Partner violence Among Asian
Immigrant Communities” by Lee and Hadeed
Underneath
all the numbers and statistics provided by Lee and Hadeed, there was one very
depressing message. The number of Asian immigrant women being abused is
disgusting. Researchers almost justify the actions of the men by saying things
like “patriarchal ideology” and “traditional gender norms.” Just because they
don’t believe what they are doing is wrong, doesn't make it right. In this
case, the actions aren't just wrong, they’re down right cruel.
But it’s not only the thought of
these women being beaten physically or emotionally that bothers me, it’s also the
sheer helplessness these women feel. These women, whether bond by familial duty
or fear of more abuse, can’t get out of their situations. They can’t see the
light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, they haven’t seen the light for
a long time. It began back in Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos with the bombing and
destruction of their homes and lives. It continued into the refugee camps of
Thailand. And their hopelessness continues here in the United States. The worst
part is that America can’t help them. Either they stay silent and we don’t know
to help them, or they do talk and we’re ill equipped to help them.
Questions:
Have you or anyone you know been a victim of intimate
partner violence?
Did cultural, societal or familial factors play a role in
the IPV?
Do you think these types of abusive relationships will
eventually disappear? Why or why not?
Linda Wei
Section A01
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