Empowering the LGBTQ and HIV communities since 1989.
Intimate Partner Violence within the LGBTQ+ community can be difficult to spot, and is often not identified because of our traditional views of what intimate partner violence looks like (masculine aggressor towards feminine victim). Intimate partner violence is when one partner asserts power and control over another partner and this can occur in many different ways (physical, emotional, financial, sexual, etc.).
Intimate Partner Violence occurs at the same or higher rates in LGBTQ+ relationships as it does in heterosexual relationships. But because of unique issues within the LGBTQ+ community, like mistrust with law enforcement, being unwillingly “outed,” and misunderstanding of what intimate partner violence can look like, many people, including law enforcement may not realize what an abusive relationship looks like.
• Being repeatedly called names or put down by your partner
• Getting punched, slapped, pushed or intimidated by your partner
• Being isolated from friends and family by your partner
• Getting stalked, followed or spied on by your partner or your partner needing to know your whereabouts/location
• Threatening messages or phone calls
• Being afraid of what your partner will do if you left them
• Extreme jealousy, quick tempered, demanding/giving orders, financial control (refusing to let your work), falsely accusing you of things such as cheating
We have staff dedicated to helping those who are victims of intimate partner violence.
• Direct crisis intervention
• Educate you on IPV, boundaries, warning signs, healthy relationships and safety
• Legal advocacy and accompaniment
• Safety planning, information and referral, and support groups