Everyone has the right to feel safe at home. If you are experiencing any form of abuse, domestic violence, or control, you have options. Domestic violence can be physical abuse like slapping, hitting, or choking, but it can also be emotional abuse like making you feel afraid, taking your money or keeping you away from friends or family, and is used to try and control you. The following organizations are here to help.
Where to Seek Help and More Information:
For concerns about abuse, help with a restraining order or shelter, contact Community Violence Intervention Center (CVIC) 211 S. 4th St, Grand Forks, ND, (701) 746-0405, www.cviconline.org. CVIC services are free and confidential and we do not ask about immigration status.
For questions about immigration status and help with connecting with the community, contact Global Friends Coalition, 1815 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND, (701) 746-8233, www.gfcoalition.org
For community support, connections, and other referrals, contact United African Community, 2524 S Washington Street, Suite B, Grand Forks, ND 58201, (701) 739-8258.
You can ask for help and information from these organizations without having to want to leave your relationship. They will listen to you, support you, and provide you with information for you to make your own choices.
Your Rights: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get a restraining order if I am in danger if I am not a U.S. citizen?
The law allows you to apply for a restraining order regardless of your immigration status.
Can I get a divorce even if my partner tells me I cannot?
You can get a divorce even if your partner does not want to. Talk to an immigration attorney if you have questions about how a divorce could impact your immigration status.
My partner took my immigration documents. What can I do?
There are options to apply for citizenship even if you are missing documents or are unable to pay the filing fees. Contact an immigration agency or immigration attorney to learn more.
Do I have to sign something my partner told me to sign?
You do not need to sign anything if you do not understand what it means. You may ask for the documents to be translated, or have the documents translated yourself.
My partner is controlling all of the money. Can I get financial support?
You can get financial support such as child support or community assistance, regardless of your immigration status. Most communities offer short term shelter and food bank assistance to anyone. Depending on your immigration status, you may be eligible for some other types of public assistance. Check with one of the above helping agencies.
Can I call the police if I am in danger?
If you fear for your safety, you can call 911. You are not required to disclose your immigration status. If you think contact with the police may pose a risk to your immigration status, you may want to contact an attorney or immigration attorney.
How can I report violence or abuse?
You can report a crime to police regardless of your immigration status. Violence is against the law. If the police officers do not speak your language, ask the police to provide a translator or find someone who can translate for you.
*The information in this publication should not be considered legal advice, and we cannot guarantee this information is always up to date as immigration law is constantly changing.
This project was supported by Grant Number 15JOVW-22-GG-00240-JFFX awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Justice.