Supporting the most Marginalized Survivors
ID: two white, male presenting hands tactile signing, background is blurred
How do we provide advocacy while in isolation?
During this difficult and unique time, advocates are trying to balance the need for physical distancing to protect everyone’s well-being while addressing the extreme impact of isolation on some survivors. DeafBlind survivors rely on physical touch for communication. Survivors may not have access to high speed internet or technology for video calls. Older survivors may struggle to navigate the necessary technology. Survivors may be in close contact with the person causing harm, making it difficult to make video calls. This is an opportunity for us to explore more creative ways to tailor our services to each individual survivor. A strategy that works well for one person may not work for another.
Advocates are sharing ideas and strategies for meeting unique needs:
Communicate with your grant manager about changing how you are using funds. Maybe we planned to host some community events, ask if we can instead use that money to provide unique and emergency services to survivors.
Create an agency instacart/doordash/uber account to purchase and deliver essential items to survivors.
Visit survivors and communicate through a window. ASL is beautiful!
Set a code word with survivors so you know it is safe to call them back.
Set your VP voicemail with a clear message: ask survivors to say if it is safe to call back or not. Include a text number for them to reach you as an alternative.
Check local resources DAILY. Things are changing rapidly. We can use our privilege and skills to navigate, find information and share it. Call the courts to find out what they are offering. Stay connected with your state DV & SV coalitions for resources.
Survivors who have experienced language deprivation might be facing extra challenges navigating financial resources, stimulus packages, etc. Share information and resources while honoring their decisions.
Text may be more accessible than video: share as many options for communication as you can. Offer to DM survivors through Facebook, Instagram, Marco Polo, Glide, etc.
Schools for the Deaf are closed - sending many kids back into homes with little or no ASL communication. Let’s host more spaces for Deaf people to connect and just chat to decrease isolation. Viewing party for a kids movie? Paint party online? Happy hour? Let’s get creative.