As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s essential to acknowledge and address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly in the context of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. At the Crisis Center of Central New Hampshire (CCCNH), we are committed to fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of our work, recognizing that these epidemics disproportionately affect those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Research consistently shows that members of the LGBTQIA+ community experience higher rates of violence and trafficking. According to the Human Rights Campaign, LGBTQIA+ individuals are more likely to be targets of hate crimes and violence, with transgender people, particularly transgender women of color, facing alarmingly high rates of assault and homicide. The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs reports that nearly one in three LGBTQIA+ survivors of violence avoid seeking help due to fear of discrimination or past negative experiences with service providers.
For LGBTQIA+ survivors, seeking help can be fraught with anxiety and fear. Ensuring that our services are inclusive and affirming means that all survivors feel safe and supported when they reach out for help. This involves training staff on LGBTQIA+ issues, using inclusive language, and displaying visible signs of support, such as Pride flags and inclusive policies.
We also must acknowledge that understanding the specific needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+ survivors is crucial for effective support. This includes recognizing the unique dynamics of abuse in LGBTQIA+ relationships, such as the use of “outing” as a tool of control and addressing the particular vulnerabilities of transgender individuals.
DEI work is not just about individual interactions but also about advocating for systemic change. This includes pushing for policies that protect LGBTQIA+ individuals from discrimination, ensuring equitable access to services, and promoting awareness of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ survivors.
Building partnerships with LGBTQIA+ organizations and participating in community events, such as Pride Month activities, helps to build trust and raise awareness about the resources available to survivors. Education campaigns can also help to dismantle stereotypes and reduce stigma, encouraging more survivors to seek help. For an extensive list of LGBTQIA+ resources in NH please visit PFlag-NH’s resource page: https://www.pflagnh.org/resources.
At CCCNH, we are dedicated to cultivating resilient communities where everyone can feel safe and supported. Our DEI initiatives include ongoing staff training, the implementation of inclusive policies, and active participation in advocacy efforts aimed at protecting and empowering LGBTQIA+ individuals.
This Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting LGBTQIA+ survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. We believe that by embracing diversity, promoting equity, and fostering inclusion, we can better serve all survivors and work towards a future where everyone can live free from violence and exploitation.
Let’s also celebrate the strength and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community and commit to building a world where every survivor can thrive. Together, we can cultivate resilient communities for all.
Sources:
https://assets2.hrc.org/files/assets/resources/HRC-AntiTransgenderViolence-0519.pdf