Domestic Violence and Cultural Perspectives in Vancouver

A panel discussion in Vancouver brought together five Iranian experts to examine how domestic violence manifests in the city’s multicultural context. The participants included Majid Mahichi (journalist), Dr. Saeed Momtazi (psychotherapist), Azar Ziamanesh (family counselor and psychotherapist), Manijeh Ghaffari (psychotherapist), and Ali Khoddami (psychologist specializing in family violence and victims of torture, working with the Ministry of Justice in British Columbia).

Majid Mahichi – Local Journalism Initiative

Majid Mahichi opened the session by noting that domestic violence is a serious social issue in Vancouver, one that cuts across class and economic lines. However, he emphasized that cultural backgrounds significantly shape how families and communities respond to it—whether through silence and stigma, or by seeking support services.

Azar Ziamanesh highlighted the psychological dimension of violence within families, pointing out that when adolescents begin to explore their identities and relationships, lack of communication and emotional maturity in parents can escalate conflicts into abuse. She emphasized that many immigrant families struggle with intergenerational gaps, cultural expectations, and unaddressed emotional needs, which can intensify tensions at home.

Manijeh Ghaffari stressed that domestic violence should not be seen as isolated incidents but rather as part of larger cultural and social systems. She explained that some communities normalize controlling behavior as a form of discipline or protection, making it harder for victims—especially women and children—to seek help. She argued that addressing domestic violence in Vancouver requires tackling these entrenched beliefs alongside legal and social reforms.

Dr. Saeed Momtazi focused on systemic gaps. He pointed out that while Vancouver offers resources such as school counselors and social workers, many immigrant families do not access them due to stigma, lack of awareness, or language barriers. He argued that real prevention requires education for parents and children alike, so that families can develop healthier patterns of communication and conflict resolution.

Ali Khoddami added that both victims and perpetrators can themselves be products of damaging cultural narratives. He explained that powerful notions of “honor” and “shame”—imported by some immigrant communities—can override a parent’s natural instinct to protect their child, perpetuating cycles of abuse. He emphasized that honor-based violence is not only a women’s issue; male victims, including sexually diverse individuals, also experience violence when their identities are seen as a “stain” on family reputation.

Together, the panelists underlined the importance of culturally sensitive education, stronger social supports, and community engagement to reduce domestic violence in Vancouver. They also stressed the vital role of local media in raising awareness, challenging harmful cultural norms, and connecting families with available resources.