July is BIPOC Mental Health Month—a time to elevate the unique mental health struggles experienced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. This is especially true for those navigating trauma without equitable access to care or justice. At Andreozzi + Foote, we see the lifelong ripple effects that child sexual abuse has on survivors. But what the system so often overlooks—and what this month calls us to confront—is how BIPOC children are not only at greater risk of abuse, but also face greater barriers to getting the help they need.
The Data Doesn’t Lie: BIPOC Children Are More Vulnerable—and More Underserved
According to research from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network:
- Black children are twice as likely as white children to experience confirmed child abuse and neglect.
- Latinx children face high rates of sexual abuse, yet are less likely to access mental health services.
- Indigenous children experience child sexual abuse at rates up to four times higher than the national average.
- And despite these alarming disparities, BIPOC children are far less likely to receive trauma-informed mental health care after abuse. This is due to systemic racism, poverty, language barriers, and distrust of institutions.
Let’s be clear: this is not accidental. These disparities are rooted in a long history of disinvestment, bias in child protection systems, and cultural stigma around both sexual violence and mental health. And when these children come forward—if they come forward—they’re often met with disbelief, blame, or silence.
Why We Talk About This in a Law Firm Blog
Because this is about justice.
At Andreozzi + Foote, we don’t just file lawsuits—we help survivors reclaim power in systems that have historically shut them out. When a BIPOC survivor comes to us, they’re often carrying not just the trauma of abuse. They also carry the trauma of being ignored, misunderstood, or systemically silenced.
This is why civil litigation matters. It’s not just about damages, or about forcing institutions—schools, churches, juvenile detention centers, youth programs—to confront their failures. It’s about making sure a child’s race or zip code doesn’t determine whether their trauma is taken seriously.
What Needs to Change for BIPOC Communities
We must invest in culturally competent, trauma-informed mental health services for BIPOC communities. We must create safe, accessible spaces where children of color feel seen, believed, and supported. And we must hold institutions accountable—because prevention isn’t just about education; it’s about consequences.
What Survivors and Families Can Do
If you or someone you love has been affected by child sexual abuse—no matter how long ago—it’s not too late to speak up. Some states are opening statute of limitations “revival windows” that allow survivors to file lawsuits. This is possible even decades after the abuse occurred.
At Andreozzi + Foote, we offer trauma-informed, confidential consultations for survivors and families. Our team understands the complex intersections of race, mental health, and abuse. We’re here to help survivors navigate the legal process with dignity and care.
This BIPOC Mental Health Month, let’s go beyond awareness. Let’s work for justice that includes all survivors—especially those the system too often leaves behind.
