Stay Informed

Myth: Only heterosexual women experience domestic violence.

Truth: Domestic violence affects women and men regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Approximately 23% of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBT+) men and 50% of LGBT+ women experience domestic violence. This means that the LGBTQ community is more likely to experience domestic violence than opposite-sex couples are. Abusive partners in LGBT+ relationships use all the same tactics to gain power and control as abusive partners in heterosexual relationships; however, abusive partners in LGBT+ relationships use additional tactics. One common way for abusive partners in LGBT+ relationships to gain power and control is the threat of “outing” a partner to friends, family or co-workers. The fear of being outed and the potential loss of a job, family or other social relationships might be too great a loss to consider. This can lead the victim to agree to their partner’s demands. Internalized shame about their sexuality or gender and abuse are large barriers to seeking help, which leads many LGBT+ victims to suffer in silence and isolation.

The Marjaree Mason Center supports victims of domestic violence in the LGBT+ community by offering housing and comprehensive domestic violence services including 24/7 crisis hotline, 24/7 crisis intake, safety planning, counseling, and legal assistance. Additionally, the Marjaree Mason Center attends community events to increase awareness of our services in the LGBT+ community. Join us at the Fresno Rainbow Pride Parade and Festival on June 3, 2017 in the Tower District. The parade starts at 10:00 a.m. and the festival runs from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information about the Fresno Rainbow Pride Parade and Festival click here.