From victim to victor: Engaging in violence prevention programming with urban girls of color

Background: Research indicates that Black girls are significantly more at risk to be victims of violence than girls of other ethnic groups and white and Asian boys.  Additionally, Black girls are more likely than all boys and white girls to avoid going to school specifically due to safety concerns. However, many school-based interventions do not address the specific gendered needs and issues of adolescents, and especially not those of Black girls.

Purpose: The Kings Against Violence Initiative (KAVI) Women's program is a violence intervention program based in two small public high schools in Brooklyn, NY designed to specifically address the needs of urban Black girls at risk for engaging in or being victims of violence.

Methods: Approximately 15 African-American and West Indian girls attended weekly group sessions facilitated by KAVI staff and interns during the course of the academic year.  The curriculum addressed topics such as anger management, conflict resolution, goal setting, developing healthy relationships, and creative expression through poetry.  Participants also received academic and cultural enrichment services, and psycho-social support.

Results: Preliminary data suggest that the KAVI Women’s program support the participants in avoiding interpersonal conflicts, engaging in pro-social behavior, decreasing truancy, and making academic strides.

Discussion: Violence interventions that are school-based and gender-responsive are effective in reducing interpersonal violence, and improving school attendance and academic achievement. It is imperative that such programs are well-funded, equipped with culturally humble staff, and systematically evaluated so that they can be sustainable and replicated to support the transition of victims to victors.