Key Issues - Black women in America are disproportionately affected by intimate partner violence, facing a higher risk of being murdered by a current or former partner compared to other groups of women [1] - 40% of black women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, compared to 30% of white women [1][2] - Stigmas within the black community discourage contacting law enforcement, contributing to the burden of protecting abusers [2][4] - Black men are often criminalized and stereotyped, leading to stifled emotions and a lack of positive representation in the media [4][6] - Black women face societal pressures to stay in abusive relationships, fearing being labeled as traitors or weak if they leave [8][9] Public Health Implications - 49% of black women suffer from heart disease, and they are twice as likely to have a stroke [15] - Over 60% of black women have high blood pressure, and 29% to 44% face postpartum depression, often untreated [16] - As of 2024, 5 out of every 100,000 black women will end their life by suicide, a number that is steadily rising [16] Solutions and Recommendations - Normalize therapy and counseling to seek support before crises escalate, breaking the stigma of silence [17] - Foster open dialogue and conversation within families, communities, and institutions to provide voice and tools to children and youth [18] - Be the generation that breaks the silence and creates safe spaces for black women, prioritizing their peace, safety, and right to live [19]