A person of color may not view this system as a safety net, but as another form of abuse and oppression. This mistrust of the criminal justice system may inhibit people of color from seeking services. There may be a mistrust of the mainstream formal system by some people of color. Historically, some people of color were discriminated against by such systems and people of color may perpetuate a mistrust of such systems as a form of protection against further acts of discrimination. This mistrust can make people of color hesitant to come forward for help.
People of color are underrepresented among domestic violence service providers.
This perception may be due to the limited involvement of people of color in staff and volunteer positions in domestic violence programs. The present formal system does not include alternatives in which people of color needing help with domestic violence feel comfort and trust. The reality is that the resources available do not always seem inviting or effective to people of color. When given the choice of continuing to experience the emotional and physical pain of a relationship that includes domestic violence or seeking help from a system that is perceived to cause just as much pain and suffering, some people of color may choose to stay in the abusive relationship. The consequences of oppression by a white system may be viewed by a person of color as more detrimental than the consequences of an abusive relationship.