Survivors of Domestic Violence Abuse

LGBT Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence is defined as a pattern of coercive control and aggressive, abusive, and/or violent behavior, in any intimate relationship, that is used by one partner to systematically gain and/or maintain power and control over another intimate partner.

According to research, LGBTQ members experience domestic violence at equal or greater rates than their heterosexual peers.

Based on the 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence survey:

  • More than 10 million adults experience domestic violence every year in the United States.
  • 44% of lesbian women, 61% of bisexual women, and 35% of heterosexual women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
  • 26% of gay men, 37% of bisexual men and 29% of heterosexual men have also experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
  • The LGBTQ community is deserving of resources and support surrounding the issues of domestic violence.

Tips

If you are an LGBT victim/survivor of domestic violence:

  • Know that you are not responsible for your partner’s abusive behavior.
  • You have the right to a safe and healthy relationship.
  • Establish contacts with friends and family so you have a safe place to go.
  • Consider obtaining a restraining order to aid in your protection. We can assist you.
  • Talk to a counselor who is trained in LGBT domestic violence issues. Warning: couples counseling can potentially make your situation more dangerous!
  • Follow the safety plan below or develop an individualized safety plan that fits your unique needs and concerns in conjunction with an LGBT-domestic violence specialist.

Safety Planning

Leaving an abusive relationship without a safety plan, support, and information about your options is potentially dangerous and can put your life and well-being at risk.

  • Keep a bag packed that is ready to go and easy to grab at a moment’s notice in case you need to leave quickly.
  • If an argument seems unavoidable, try to move to a room with easy access to an exit. Do not relocate to a bathroom, kitchen or any location where there are potential weapons.
  • Keep emergency cash hidden where you can get to it quickly. Keep important papers with you or in your packed bag so you will have them when you leave.
  • Devise a code word to use with your family, children, friends or neighbors to alert them if you need the police.
  • If the situation is dangerous, use your best judgment to keep yourself safe. Call the police as soon as it is safe to do so.
  • You have the right to obtain a restraining order. Keep the restraining order with you at all times. Leave extra copies at work, with a friend, in your car, etc.

Checklist: What You May Need to Take When Leaving

  • Identification: birth certificates, driver’s license
  • Money, ATM card, checkbook, credit card, cash
  • House and car keys
  • Photos of injuries your partner inflicted on you
  • Legal papers: Copy of restraining order, medical records, paternity or custody papers, etc.
  • Address book, important telephone numbers
  • Work permits, green card, passport, etc.
  • Children
  • Pets
  • Medications and other medical supplies

STOP Violence Program (SVP)
[email protected]
Warmline: 323-860-5806

If this is an emergency, call 911!

Legal Advocacy Project for Survivors (LAPS)
[email protected]
323-993-7649