Until relatively recently, scholars did not fully recognize the problem, knew little about it beyond its broadest patterns, and frequently oversimplified or misinterpreted what was known. In examining where we are now in understanding and preventing violence in communities of color, the chapter begins with a brief discussion of methodological constraints hindering research on violence and the role of cultural assumptions in interpreting research results and developing explanatory theory. The chapter summarizes data on violence experienced by African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, noting the numerous gaps in current knowledge. The chapter closes with recommendations on where we need to be with regard to such violence. The chapter emphasizes the need for focused research that will yield a more accurate understanding of the extent and nature of the problem of violence in communities of color and create an ecological perspective that recognizes the role of both interpersonal and environmental factors in supporting or discouraging acts of violence. The chapter advocates the development and testing of culturally relevant approaches to violence prevention and intervention and highlights promising trends in this direction. 132 references