Sexual Assault and the LGBTQ Community Rick Gipprich, Jr. Training Specialist ext. 39

Sexual Orientation Terminology Lesbian: A woman or girl whose primary sexual and romantic feelings are for people of the same sex. Gay: A man or boy whose primary sexual and romantic feelings are for people of the same sex. While many people use this word to refer to men, others use it as a general term to include both men and women, e.g. “the gay community.” Bisexual: A person whose sexual and romantic feelings may be for people of “either” sex. Queer: An inclusive term which refers collectively to lesbians, gay men, bisexual and transgender folks and others who may not identify with any of these categories but do identify with this term. While once used as a hurtful, oppressive term, many people have reclaimed it as an expression of power and pride.

Sexual Orientation Terminology Homosexual: Refers to any person whose sexual and romantic feelings are for people of the same sex. While once widely used, it is generally not preferred as it did not emerge from within the community and was used to describe a mental illness. Fag/Dyke/etc: Terms which some people have chosen to reclaim despite their history of being used in hurtful ways, but which may be oppressive if used by people outside the community. Heterosexism: The belief that heterosexual relationships and people are ideal and better or more normal than queer relationships and people. Sex: A medical term used to describe the physical characteristics one has such as genitalia, chromosomes, and hormones.

Sexual Orientation Terminology Gender Identity: One’s personal view of one’s own gender. Gender Expression: External and socially perceived. May include one ‟ s behaviors, dress, mannerisms, speech patterns, and social interactions. How one communicates their gender. Gender Role: The collection of a society’s assumptions, expectations and traditions for how a person of a particular gender is supposed to act and be acted upon socially. Transgender: Having a gender identity of man or woman not matching their physical birth sex. Typically people bring their gender expression to match their gender identity, sometimes using medical intervention.

The Fundamentals Of Working With LGBTQ Survivors Although sexual assault is not isolated to any one type of victim, we know that there are issues that may arise for LGBTQ people that are unique to their community. Homophobia, bi-phobia, trans-phobia, and fear of further victimization by first responders and other service providers can make it difficult for many LGBTQ survivors to seek services. Understanding that often times LGBTQ survivors might experience hate violence in the form of sexual assault. In addition to the rape, survivors may experience higher rates of physical violence as well. As a community, LGBTQ people face higher rates of poverty, stigma, and marginalization, which puts them at greater risk for sexual assault

Myths associated with LGBTQ Violence Abusers are men; victims are women. Abusers are usually bigger, stronger or more butch than their partners. LGBTQ victims can easily leave abusive partners because they have no legal ties to them. Transgender people wouldn’t get hurt if they didn’t dress or try to act like something they’re not.

Just The Facts… Lesbian women and gay men reported levels of intimate partner violence and sexual violence equal to or higher than those of heterosexuals. Gay/bisexual men experience intimate partner violence at a rate of 2 in 5 (comparable to heterosexual women) 50% of the lesbian population have experienced or will experience IPV in their relationship. It’s estimated that nearly 1 in 10 LGGBTQ survivors of IPV has also experienced sexual violence from those same partners. Studies also suggest that around half of transgender people and bisexual women will experience sexual violence at some point in their lives

GLBT Barriers to Reporting Marginalization- “we are beyond second class.” Fear that the heterosexual community is fearful, has a lack of knowledge and a lack of education about same sex relationships. Fear of the prejudice they feel they will receive. “You know, the heterosexual population would just as soon have the gay populations just disappear”.

GLBT Barriers to Reporting Protection through Silence-stay in the relationship to prove to family, friends, society their choice to be in a same sex relationship was not wrong. Fear of not being believed Shame because of coercion to trade sex for housing, food or other basic necessities – specific to LGBTQ youth who are experiencing homelessness. Fear of discrimination, ridicule, issues with the disclosure of their sexuality.

GLBT Barriers to Reporting Recognition-Not recognizing the violence for what it is. (Domestic and sexual violence only happens between men and women.) In a lesbian relationship (women can’t be the aggressor.) Masking the nature of the violence for self preservation.

GLBT Barriers to Reporting System incompetence- ”Laughing it Off” LE & prosecution typecast the victim/suspect into predefined roles. Fear of being further abused by the system. Fear their case won’t be prosecuted because of their sexuality.

GLBT Barriers to Reporting Religious campus Alcohol consumption College is a time when students are exploring their sexuality Fear of further isolation Fear of asking for help if it means having to come out Not ready to self identify as LGBT Parents and family will know

Making it Easy for LGBTQ Survivors to Disclose Ask Amend intake forms to ask for sexual orientation and gender identity. This insures that everyone is asked and sends a signal to clients that their identity is important and respected. Redecorate What posters, messages, magazines are present? Are they reflective all people? Do you subscribe to LGBTQ- friendly magazines? Signs of inclusivity send a strong message of acceptance and safety. Make sure to include brochures and handouts with hotline numbers for LGBTQ specific issues and services. Expand your victim-centered approach Ask if the victim believes that their assault was committed or escalated because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Apologize in advance if you need clarification on terminology or gender pronouns. You will find most LGBTQ survivors are forgiving if you make a mistake, or need help understanding. Recognize and check your heterosexual privilege.

Focusing Prevention Efforts Things to consider… The development and support of healthy relationships and the skills necessary to engage in healthy relationships among individuals who identify as LGBTQ in order to promote healthy interpersonal relationships, as well as value positive intra- community relationships and structural supports. The cultural relevance and competency of organizations and institutions in communities to serve and support individuals who identify as LGBTQ to address risks of re-victimization, lack of access to support services and care, and health disparities. The development of community norms and supports that contribute to the ability of individuals who identify as LGBTQ and their communities to thrive while addressing risks associated with hate crimes and violence originating outside of LGBTQ communities.