Denver, Colorado – Alexandra James Banuelos is advocating for increased support for survivors, especially within her community, following a violent attack by her husband that left her with severe injuries, including a swollen eye and bruises of various colors.
Alexandra recounts the harrowing experience of her husband assaulting her after she expressed her desire for a divorce, causing her to fear for her life. This incident was not the first time she endured violence from her husband, as she had previously filed a protection order against him after a similar assault on February 14.
Despite the ongoing investigation by the Denver Police Department into the May 6 incident, no arrests have been made, leaving Alexandra concerned for her safety as her husband remains at large. She expresses her fear of his return, believing that he may attempt to harm her again.
As an Indigenous woman, Alexandra highlights the lack of accessible resources for her community, drawing attention to the statistics from the U.S. Department of Justice that indicate a high prevalence of violence among American Indian and Alaska Native adults. She emphasizes the urgent need for more support and assistance for Indigenous individuals facing domestic violence situations.
Reflecting on her survival, Alexandra acknowledges her fortunate escape from a potentially fatal situation, noting the alarming rates of missing and murdered Indigenous individuals within her family and community. She stresses the importance of addressing the systemic issues that contribute to violence against Indigenous people.
In light of her traumatic experience, Alexandra calls for increased awareness and resources for victims and survivors of domestic violence, particularly focusing on the needs of Indigenous populations. Her bravery in sharing her story serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many individuals experiencing domestic abuse.