(This blog originally appeared on 6/6/2022. It was last updated on June 1, 2024.)
Each June at The Center for Women and Families, we recognize Pride Month. We provide help for people of all genders and sexual orientation who have experienced sexual or relationship violence, whether this happened recently or years ago. We also support friends and family members of survivors. Our services are free, safe, and confidential.
As Pride Month is celebrated more broadly across the globe every year, and people in the LGBTQ+ community are increasingly finding greater love, acceptance, and support, we believe it’s important to share information about The Center’s role as an ally, advocate, and supporter for those in non-heterosexual relationships.
Did you know that LGBTQ+ members experience intimate partner violence at equal or even higher rates than people in heterosexual relationships? In addition to physical violence, abuse in LBGTQ+ relationships can manifest psychologically, financially, emotionally, and sexually, with perpetrators taking advantage of unique circumstances—such as gender identity and presentation, medical needs, or not being “out”—to threaten, exert control over, and manipulate their partner.
Unfortunately, a large percentage of abuse in the LBGTQ+ community goes unreported because of concerns about being taken seriously, discrimination, bullying, hate crimes, or being outed to friends, family members, or coworkers.
It is critical, however, for anyone being harmed by intimate partner violence or sexual violence to seek help to ensure their own safety and the safety of their children.
We serve anyone who has been or is currently impacted by intimate partner or sexual violence, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity.
We are a safe, compassionate space for people who need advocates to believe and support them as they seek refuge from abuse. If you or someone you know is experiencing any warning signs, remember that no one deserves to feel unsafe or be abused. Call our 24/7 hotline at 1-844-237-2331 to get advice or create a safety plan.
