July is Disability Pride Month, celebrating the achievements, contributions, and identities of people with disabilities while raising awareness about their challenges. Initiated in 1990, the year the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, this month is also a crucial time to address the heightened risk of violence faced by individuals with disabilities.
The Risk of Violence for People with Disabilities
Individuals with disabilities experience violence at higher rates than their non-disabled peers, often due to factors like dependence on caregivers, social isolation, and discrimination. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with disabilities are four times more likely to experience violence than those without disabilities.
Intersectionality: LGBT and Disabled
The intersection of being both LGBT and disabled compounds these risks. LGBT individuals with disabilities may face unique forms of prejudice and violence, stemming from ableism and homophobia or transphobia. This dual vulnerability requires a nuanced approach to advocacy and support.
According to the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP), 61% of LGBTQ survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) report experiencing violence related to their identities, including both their disability and their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in the LGBTQ+ Community
IPV is a significant issue within the LGBTQ+ community. The 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey reported that 54% of transgender individuals have experienced some form of intimate partner violence. Additionally, a study by the Williams Institute found that bisexual women experience IPV at significantly higher rates (61%) compared to lesbian (44%) and heterosexual women (35%).
Creating Safer and More Inclusive Environments
To create safer and more inclusive environments, it is crucial to recognize and address the compounded vulnerabilities faced by LGBT individuals with disabilities. This includes:
- Implementing comprehensive support services that are accessible and inclusive.
- Providing education and training on the unique challenges faced by this population.
- Advocating for policies that protect the rights and safety of individuals with disabilities and those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Disability Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need to advocate for the rights and safety of individuals with disabilities, especially those who are also part of the LGBT community. By raising awareness and fostering understanding, we can work towards a society where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported.
Contact LGBT Life Center if You’re Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence
LGBT Life Center has staff who can help with:
• direct crisis intervention,
• educate about IPV, boundaries,
• warning signs,
• understanding healthy relationships,
• safety information,
• legal advocacy and accompaniment,
• safety planning,
• referrals,
• support groups,
• and much more.
Call us at 757-640-0929 to speak to a crisis counselor or email info@lgbtlifecenter.org.
For more information on how you can support or get involved, visit LGBT Life Center.
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