Abusive relationships are often reflections of underlying social inequities. When oppressive systems are present in communities and people experience racism, anti-immigrant sentiment, gender bias, homophobia and transphobia, inequitable access to resources, and other forms of oppression, they experience domestic violence at higher rates, and experience worse health outcomes. These intersecting layers of oppression can create institutional barriers that prevent the most impacted survivors from accessing the support they need. Addressing these root causes of systemic oppression and barriers increases protective factors and creates greater safety and well-being for all communities.

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Inequities significantly increase the dangers faced by Black trans women, who are at a greater risk of violence from an intimate partner. This alarming fact is rooted in systemic issues; misogyny, racism, and transphobia adversely affect the economic stability of Black trans women. California’s findings from the National Transgender Discrimination Survey indicate that Black trans individuals face poverty at a rate five times higher than other people. Financial stress and insecurity is another risk factor for abuse, especially when widespread discrimination impacts individuals as they attend school, go to work, and try to secure and maintain housing. With community organizing work among youth and adults, domestic violence organizations work to change social norms, such as racism and gender-based prejudice, as well as prevent them from taking root in the first place.

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Housing insecurity erodes economic stability and increases vulnerability to continued abuse and further trauma. Survivors too often make the impossible choice between safety for themselves and their children and a roof over their heads. When they do experience homelessness, they risk further violence, have fewer resources for their physical and mental health needs, and can experience worse health outcomes. When decision-makers and community leaders invest in safe, affordable housing options, communities can decrease the likelihood that individuals will have to stay in an abusive relationship to meet their basic needs.

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Power differentials exist between individuals causing harm who speak English and undocumented partners who may communicate in another language. This affects access to safety and essential resources. This dynamic is particularly evident when those who cause harm threaten to report their partners to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). If someone experiencing domestic violence calls the police, the first officers on the scene are more likely to speak English, giving their partners an advantage in communication. This can lead to a misrepresentation of the situation, including attempts to turn the accusation of abuse back on the victim. This is especially prevalent when the person experiencing violence leaves physical markings of self-defense.

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Improving language access helps build a bridge of communication about vital resources. While over half of people do not call the police, some organizations provide Domestic Abuse Response Teams (DARTs) to accompany law enforcement responses. Culturally responsive organizations also commonly provide information in individuals' first languages, filling gaps and fostering a safer environment for all. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving health equity, as it aligns with the five domains of social drivers of health (SDoH): economic stability, education access, health care access, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community context.