Advocacy and Outreach
Together, We Can End Domestic Violence
Every voice matters in the fight against domestic violence. Our advocacy programs empower communities to take action, support survivors, and drive policy changes that protect families.
As we continue our community-based support, we believe that improving systems is exceedingly necessary to protect and bring individuals and families to self-sufficiency.
In the past year, An-Nisa Hope Center has created, enacted, and assisted with over 20 trainings for legislative, education, health, and public services teams while simultaneously advocating for the Judicial Awareness and Training Act. Learn More about our activities>>
In 2025, we firmly support legislation mandating domestic violence recognition training for Texas cosmetologists and barbers. This crucial training will equip them with the skills needed to identify and address the warning signs of domestic violence effectively. Learn More about the bill>>
Influencing Change Through Advocacy
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Community Awareness and Education
The Nisa advocacy team works to raise public awareness by hosting educational workshops every quarter in various fields such as healthcare, education, law, and cosmetology. We collaborate with local media outlets to share survivor stories and provide prevention tips. The team also establishes peer support networks and mentorship programs to strengthen community connections among survivors. Additionally, we are launching a year-long public awareness campaign, with a particular focus on Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. Our goal for 2025 is to develop culturally sensitive resources in multiple languages to engage diverse audiences effectively.
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Policy & Legislative Engagement
An Nisa advocacy team focuses on building partnerships with organizations, stakeholders, and community leaders to enhance their collective impact. By collaborating with local law enforcement, we provide trauma-informed response training to improve survivor outcomes. We also work with healthcare providers to incorporate domestic violence screenings into medical care and engage corporate sponsors to support workplace prevention programs. Additionally, the team is dedicated to forging alliances with marginalized communities to address intersectional barriers and amplify the voices of underserved groups.
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Collaborative Partnerships
The Nisa advocacy team is committed to driving impactful policy changes that enhance protections for survivors and ensure accountability for perpetrators. We boldly identify priority legislative goals aimed at strengthening survivor rights and holding offenders accountable. By forging powerful coalitions with other advocacy groups, we effectively lobby for transformative systemic change. Our grassroots mobilization energizes communities to rally behind key legislation, amplifying our collective voice for justice and protection.
How You Can Help
Donate
Your involvement makes a difference. Help us fund critical programs that provide shelter, counseling, and legal assistance.
Volunteer
Your actions can help contribute to a safer and more just society. Sign up to volunteer with community outreach, events, and survivor support services.
Speak Out
It is our belief that together, we can create a safe world. Share information on social media, attend rallies, and contact local representatives
DID YOU KNOW: Domestic Violence cases made up more than 13% of criminal proceedings and 56% of all felonies in Travis County, TX in 2023.
FAQs: Cosmetologists as Advocates Against Domestic Violence
Why is training cosmetologists in domestic violence important?
Cosmetologists often build close relationships with their clients and may notice subtle signs of abuse that others miss. Training equips them to recognize signs of domestic violence, provide emotional support, and discreetly connect survivors with resources.
How can cosmetologists help survivors of domestic violence?
Trained cosmetologists can intervene sensitively by creating safe, non-judgmental spaces for survivors to confide in them. They can also provide referrals to shelters, counseling, and hotlines, offering vital support during critical moments.
What role do salons play in domestic violence prevention?
Salons can act as sanctuaries for survivors, fostering trust and open communication. With proper training, salon professionals become key allies in connecting individuals to life-saving resources and support networks.
How does this program raise awareness within the beauty industry?
By integrating domestic violence training into cosmetology education, the program encourages awareness and advocacy across the beauty industry. Cosmetologists can amplify their impact by participating in awareness campaigns and partnering with local organizations.
Why Advocacy Matters?
Advocacy is crucial in the fight against domestic violence and in supporting survivors. The success of training on human trafficking and mental health for professionals demonstrates the need for immediate implementation of domestic violence training. Mandating this training through an advocacy campaign is essential to ensure survivors, cosmetologists, and the entire community are kept safe and informed. We cannot afford to delay any longer.
Our Partners and Coalitions
