2008 MetLife Awards: Bridging Cultural Divides to Combat Domestic Violence
Date Published: 12/03/2008
Author: Anne Dodge
CASE STUDY
Dwa Fanm, the New York City Police Department and the Kings County District Attorney's Office,
2008 MetLife Foundation Community-Police Partnership Diversity Inclusion and Integration Award
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Dwa Fanm is a grassroots organization working to end discrimination, injustice and violence against black immigrant women, particularly those with immigration and/or language issues. The organization pioneered the first partnerships with police ever to exist in Haitian and other Caribbean immigrant communities of New York City on behalf of victims of domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault. Through a multi-phase collaboration involving the leadership of violence survivors, Dwa Fanm partnered with New York City Police to create mutually trusting relationships between criminal justice personnel and community members. Working with the Mayor's Office to Combat Domestic Violence, Dwa Fanm hosted focus groups and private forums between victims and police. Police Headquarters supported roll call trainings to help officers become familiar with issues specific to black immigrant cultures, gave access to domestic incidence report logs for the purpose of early intervention and allowed escort during follow-up home visits to Creole-speaking victims of domestic violence. Working with the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office, Dwa Fanm used radio, public television and community churches to educate women on how to use the criminal justice system without fear of being penalized for immigration status. As a result, victims from these communities are reporting better communication with police, demonstrating willingness to report crime, increasingly working with the criminal justice system and seeking safety. Dwa Fanm witnessed a reduction in the dual arrest complaints brought to its counselors, as well as a reduction in reports of cross complaints. Surveys and radio response now show that black immigrant community members in general are learning more accurate information about police officers and Dwa Fanm's partnership with the NYPD has expanded to four additional precincts in their community. The project is an example that organizations, community and police can work together and keep community members safe.
Topic: --Community Safety
Type: Case study / model practice