All survivors deserve support and care that aligns with their needs, in an environment that is as comfortable for them as possible. Every survivor is different, and survivors may have needs that are specific to their culture, identities, and lived experiences.
Survivors from historically marginalized communities may feel more safe seeking services from providers within their own community. Culturally specific programs are designed to meet the needs of a group of people with a shared cultural identity. These services are aligned with the community’s culture and language, and that is reflected in staffing, the physical space, written materials, services, and programming available.
Co-advocacy is a shared agreement between a culturally specific agency and a mainstream service provider for collaboration to meet the culturally grounded needs of survivors. These agreements can allow service providers to coordinate services to meet the needs of survivors through referral and training to one another. Co-advocacy models can help survivors access the services that are most appropriate for their needs and preferences.
It is the role of an advocate and best practice to support survivors in accessing services that will best meet their culturally specific needs. Please see the Anti-Oppression section of our website for more information.