The CEE is dedicated to advocating for equitable policies, ensuring access to life-changing resources, and amplifying the voices of survivors. Our commitment continues to extend to immigrants, undocumented individuals, the LGBTQ+ population, and others disproportionately impacted by systemic inequities, as we continue to provide trauma-informed care and unwavering advocacy. 

The Trump Administration’s rollback of essential human rights protections has profound and detrimental implications for survivors of interpersonal violence. These rollbacks, and threats of additional rollbacks, not only erode the safety net for survivors but also send a harmful message that their rights and safety are not a priority. Survivors of interpersonal violence deserve a system that protects, supports, and empowers them—not one that creates more obstacles to their recovery and healing. Restoring and strengthening these protections is critical to ensuring that all survivors can access the resources they need to live free from violence. 

While the CEE does not engage in political discourse, we advocate for systemic change by collaborating with policymakers to address social justice issues and ensure equitable representation for all people and cultures. Our advocacy efforts are rooted in the belief that elected leaders must be role models of accountability, respect, and integrity. These values are essential for creating a society where sexual and domestic violence are taken seriously, perpetrators are held accountable, and survivors receive the support they deserve. 

CEE reaffirms its commitment to serving immigrants and undocumented individuals impacted by interpersonal violence. Our organization ensures that survivors’ safety and confidentiality are prioritized, and we work tirelessly to provide services that are accessible in their native languages. We stand with immigrant survivors, regardless of documentation status, offering resources to navigate complex systems and advocating for policies that protect their rights.  

We are dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space in which every survivor can access the support they need without fear of judgment or exclusion. This commitment includes offering inclusive services, training staff to respond with cultural sensitivity, and actively working to address the disparities that disproportionately affect survivors in marginalized communities. 

The CEE provides confidential services in the form of counseling, advocacy, emergency shelter, and crisis intervention, in addition to our education and outreach initiatives – all at no cost. Individuals do not have to show ID, have insurance, or pay for any of our support services. Services are available to individuals of all identities and backgrounds. 

At CEE, we believe that everyone deserves safety, dignity, and respect. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to serving all victims and survivors of interpersonal violence—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religion, nationality, ability, or any other characteristic—with the utmost compassion, dignity, and respect. 

If you or someone you know needs support, our no-cost, confidential hotlines are available 24/7. 

Domestic Violence Hotline (203)731-5206 

Sexual Assault Hotline (203)731-5204 

By Ashley Dunn, MS, MFT, NCC 

President and CEO