“They look like a happy couple, and she’s so successful so she can’t possibly be abused at home, right?” Many people associate domestic violence with vulnerable individuals. The society suggests that only those considered weak can be broken or hurt. However, abuse can happen to anyone regardless of their background or how successful they look. Intimate-partner violence is a a serious issue and a growing concern in Canada.
While abuse can affect anyone, intersectionality plays an important role in the experiences of those fleeing abuse. Certain groups will face more barriers when trying to leave and abusive relationship. People of colour, those in the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and those with disabilities will all face additional barriers when trying to flee abuse. Abuse comes in many forms. While many picture an outdated image of a ‘battered woman’, and physical abuse is often the most discussed, other forms of abuse can be just as harmful and can often be the red flags that lead to physical abuse.