Ujima, The National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community

From the desk of our founder & CEO, Karma Cottman

Today's the day! Your voice matters! Every vote is a step toward shaping our future.  Make sure you’re heard—get out and vote!

At a recent town hall in Martha’s Vineyard, we partnered with Essence Communications Inc. and The Allstate Foundation to shine a light on a critical issue affecting many Black women: financial abuse. This hidden form of control can have devastating effects, isolating victims by limiting their access to money, damaging credit, and sabotaging job opportunities. Our insightful panelists explored the unique barriers that Black women face in seeking support, emphasizing the urgent need to recognize the signs of financial abuse and take action to disrupt its impact. This powerful discussion features our CEO Karma Cottman, the CCO of A Call to Men, Kimya Motley, Sharisse Kimbro, Relationship Abuse Program Officer at The Allstate Foundation & Kimberly Wilson, Senior Editor at Essence. Watch Money Manipulation: Exploring Economic Abuse in Black Relationships below: https://lnkd.in/eKBJQjwz

Yesterday, we celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in Washington, DC. The day was filled with incredible speakers, advocates and survivors. Hearing from remarkable speakers, including our CEO, Karma Cottman, was truly inspiring. Everyone spoke of all that's been accomplished and what is yet to be done. Ujima is thrilled to be on this incredibly important, necessary journey!

When we think of domestic violence, we often picture physical abuse but many forms of violence are concealed. “Shockingly, 78% of Americans do not recognize financial abuse as a form of domestic violence, despite its presence in 99% of abusive relationships. This lack of awareness leaves many victims unable to identify their situation as abusive and uncertain of how to seek help.” - Essence.com Keep swiping as we share more shocking statistics about financial abuse. Hear from our CEO Karma Cottman and learn more about Neisha Himes' personal experience in Beyond The Bruises: Understanding Financial Abuse As A Form Of Domestic Violence. Essence Communications Inc.The Allstate Foundation https://lnkd.in/eRPPDFZt

The National Center for Culturally Responsive Victim Services is excited to launch a new grant program to support culturally specific anti-violence organizations across the U.S. and its territories! This program will provide grants of $50,000 or $100,000 to 15 community-based organizations to enhance strategic, culturally responsive approaches to victim support. Are you a culturally specific organization with a proven history of developing culturally specific programs for survivors of violence? We encourage you to apply and share with your networks! Want to learn more about this amazing opportunity? Register for the information session see --> bit.ly/InfoCRVS

Managing anxiety during this election cycle is SO important for maintaining your well-being, especially as a Black woman. Here are a few tips for managing stress.

Understanding the different types of abuse—physical, emotional, digital, and financial—is vital in the fight against domestic violence. Each form can deeply impact victims, making awareness essential. Let’s listen, learn, and empower those affected to seek help. #DVAM #BreakTheSilence #EndTheCycle

GirlTREK, Ujima, and The Allstate Foundation joined forces in a powerful partnership in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Supported by The Allstate Foundation, over 4,000 women nationwide walked a 5K in solidarity with survivors of domestic violence earning $50,000 for Ujima. In addition to walks happening across the country, GirlTREK hosted the Liberation Line where GirlTREK Co-Founders, Morgan, and Vanessa, were joined by Karma Cottman, Founder & CEO of Ujima, and Kimya Motley, Survivor, and Chief Communications Officer of A Call to Men. Ujima, The National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community The Allstate Foundation Hailey Darby Vanessa Garrison T. Morgan Dixon

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Lilly Ledbetter, a pioneer in the fight for equal pay. Equal pay is crucial for financial independence and a key defense against financial abuse. When women earn what they deserve, they gain the freedom to make choices that enhance their lives. "Ledbetter's activism led to the first bill Barack Obama signed into law after becoming president in 2009. The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Restoration Act, made it easier for workers to sue after discovering what they believed to be pay discrimination." -CBSNews.com Let’s honor her legacy by continuing to advocate for equitable pay and empowering women to thrive! https://lnkd.in/eCUEqNeg Learn more about financial abuse -> https://lnkd.in/eRPPDFZt