Cultural Competency:

Victims of crime do not fit into any particular mold. They represent all facets of the community: economically, ethnically, socially, educationally, spiritually and physically. Therefore the aim of those addressing the needs of crime victims is to provide culturally sensitive services to all victims.


Key Concept: Those who are most vulnerable to violent crime are often under-served by victim assistance officials.


The Bureau of Justice’s National Crime Victimization Survey (1994-1997) indicated the following:

1. Minorities, African Americans in particular, tend to be disproportionately affected by violent crime.
2. Asian and Native American women are more likely to be victims of sexual assault than White or Black women.
3. Women from lower income households are significantly more likely to be victims of sexual assault than women from higher income levels.
4. A higher percentage of Blacks report crimes of violence to police than Whites.
5. Hispanics are less likely to report victimization involving strangers than non-Hispanics, but were equally likely to report victimization involving non-strangers.

It is vital to be aware of the issues facing the particular culture you are working with. There are many resources available for both the victims and those working with the victims. It is strongly advised that attorneys obtain as much information regarding cultural issues and how to be sensitive and respectful of those issues.