British Asian women are living in fear of domestic abuse within their own homes, silenced by cultural barriers that prevent them from speaking out, according to BBC Asian Network Breakfast presenter Nikita Kanda. Kanda highlights the ongoing struggle that women face in seeking help for domestic abuse due to the persistent stigma, societal pressure, and fear of dishonour prevalent in society.
Kanda, a 28-year-old known for her upbeat presence on the airwaves, has bravely shared her own experiences with violence to support The Independent’s Brick by Brick campaign, in collaboration with Refuge. The campaign aims to raise funds for the construction of safe homes for women, children, and their pets who are survivors of domestic abuse.
Despite exceeding the initial fundraising target of £300,000, the campaign continues to raise money for additional safe properties. Kanda emphasises the importance of breaking the silence around domestic abuse and providing support for survivors within the Asian community.
She discloses that many women stay in abusive homes due to fear of community judgment, a phenomenon perpetuated by the notion that such behaviour is normal or acceptable. Kanda stresses the need for a shift in mindset to prioritize women’s safety and well-being above societal perceptions.
In addition to sharing her own harrowing experiences, Kanda collaborates with Refuge to empower Asian women facing domestic abuse and encourage them to seek help. By leveraging her platform, she aims to shed light on the hidden reality of abuse within Asian communities and provide hope to those in need of support.
Kanda urges individuals in Asian communities to remain vigilant for signs of domestic abuse among their friends and family members. By listening and believing survivors’ accounts, she believes that a supportive network can play a crucial role in enabling victims to break free from abusive situations.
The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated domestic abuse within the South Asian community, with many women trapped in dangerous environments with their abusers. Aneeta Prem from Freedom Charity warns of a looming crisis, exacerbated by the closure of safe spaces during lockdown, leaving young women vulnerable to oppressive conditions.
Kanda’s advocacy for survivors of domestic abuse serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to speak out and seek assistance. Her commitment to raising awareness and providing support within the Asian community reflects a growing movement towards breaking the silence and addressing the pervasive issue of domestic abuse.
To support the Brick by Brick campaign and contribute to creating safe spaces for survivors of domestic abuse, donations can be made through The Independent’s initiative with Refuge. For those in need of confidential support, Refuge’s national domestic abuse helpline can be reached at 0808 2000 247.