Attention all my Brothers & Sisters, If you resonate with anything this sister shares about her experiences of abuse and wish to contribute your perspective, please reach out to me via email at drzayistalking@gmail.com. I welcome the opportunity to engage in a conversation with genuine Brothers & Sisters on this important topic. NEXT Wednesday I'm Havin' A Conversation with Zay- "Domestic Abuse Survivor” Mrs. Winona Lee Washington at 8 pm and the link is below. Please Subscribe, Comment, and Share Churches and Religious Leaders "Need to Create Safe & Supportive Environments where Survivors of Abuse Feel Empowered to Come Forward and Receive The Help They Need. Having Therapy For Abused Women. This may involve Providing Education and Training on Recognizing and Responding to Abuse, Offering Confidential Support Services, and Fostering a Culture of Empathy, Compassion, and Non-Judgemental within the Church Community. Incorporating these Biblical Principles into our Interactions with others can help Create Environments Characterized by Love, Dignity, and Mutual Support. By Extending Empathy & Understanding to Those who have Experienced Emotional Abuse, we can offer them Hope & Healing through God's Love & Grace. The reasons why Women in Black churches may be hesitant to share Their Experiences of Abuse can be Complex and Multifaceted, influenced by Various Cultural, Social, and Personal Factors. Here are some Potential Reasons: (1) Cultural Norms- Like many others, Black communities may have cultural norms that discourage discussing personal problems outside of the family or community. There may be a sense of stigma or shame associated with disclosing experiences of abuse. (2) Mistrust of Authority Figures- Historically, Black communities have faced systemic oppression and discrimination, leading to a mistrust of authority figures and institutions. This may extend to religious leaders and the church, making survivors of abuse reluctant to seek help or share their experiences within these spaces. (3) Fear of Judgment and Rejection- Survivors of abuse may fear being judged, blamed, or ostracized by their church community if they disclose their experiences. Concerns about not being believed or being seen as bringing shame to the church may exist. (4) Loyalty to the Church- Many Black individuals have a deep sense of loyalty and attachment to their church and may fear damaging its reputation or causing discord within the congregation by speaking out about abuse. (5) Lack of Support Service- Black churches may lack adequate resources and support services for survivors of abuse. Without accessible and culturally sensitive support systems in place, survivors may feel isolated and reluctant to come forward. (6) Spiritual Beliefs- Some survivors of abuse may struggle with feelings of guilt, believing that they should be able to overcome their experiences through prayer and faith alone. This can create barriers to seeking help outside of spiritual practices. (7) Intersectional Identities - Black women may face unique challenges due to their intersectional identities, including race, gender, and socioeconomic status. These intersecting forms of oppression can compound the difficulties of speaking out about abuse and seeking support. (1) This verse reassures us of God's closeness to those who are hurting, emphasizing His compassion and care for individuals who have been emotionally wounded.

(Psalm 34:18) (2) They encourage believers to rid themselves of negative emotions and instead cultivate kindness and compassion toward one another, reflecting the love and grace they have received from God.