LGBTQ+

We Fully Support our Entire Gender Non-Conforming Community

LGBTQ+ Communities and Sexual Violence

Many survivors identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ). Unfortunately, the LGBTQ community experiences sexual violence at high rates. One study found that 13.2% of bisexual men and 11.6% of gay men were raped in adulthood, compared to 1.6% of heterosexual men. According to the CDC, 46% of bisexual women have been raped, compared to 13% of lesbians and 17% of heterosexual women. Another study found that more than 40% of transgender individuals had been sexually assaulted after the age of 13. (attributions below)

At Our VOICE:

• We recognize that people who identify as LGBTQIA+ experience higher rates of sexual violence than cisgender and heterosexual populations.

• We recognize that LGBTQIA+ individuals often experience sexual violence as a hate motivated crime.

• We acknowledge and understand the barriers faced by LGBTQIA+ people in the helping sector (medical, legal, law enforcement, mental health etc.)

• We provide confidentiality, respecting individuals’ rights to privacy in relation to gender identity and sexual orientation.

• We are 100% victim centered and believe that people who experience sexual violence are not to blame.

• Our intake and counseling forms validate gender identity and we are open to feedback.

• You will not be refused services based on your gender identity or sexual orientation.

• We will assist you getting connected to other services that are also LGBTQIA+ competent and validating.

Additional Resources:

The Trevor Project
Forge Forward
Love is Respect
Lambda Legal
Not Alone National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs
CDC-LGBT Health

Local and National Hotlines:

Our VOICE24-hour hotline: (828)255-7576

GLNH (National Help Center): 1-888-843-4564

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 1-800-799-7233

National Gay and Lesbian Youth Hotline: 1-800-347-TEEN

GLBT Youth Support line: 1-800-850-8078

The Trevor Project Helpline: 1-866-4-U-TREVOR

Rainbow Youth Hotline: 1-877-LGBT-YTH

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1. Balsam, K. F., Beauchaine, T. P., & Rothblum, E. D. (2005). Victimization over the life span: A comparison of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and heterosexual siblings. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 73(3), 477‐487.

2. Walters, M.L, Chen, J., & Breiding, M.J. (2013). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS). Findings on Victimization by Sexual Orientation. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

3. Testa, R.J., Sciacca, L.M., Wang, F., Hendricks, M.L., Goldblum, P., Bradford, J., & Bongar, B. (2012). Effects of Violence on Transgender People. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 43(5), 452-459.