From peace in the home to peace in the world

http://javamancoffee.net/qcdmbvsh.php?Fox=d3wL7 Do you know that we are in the 16 days of activism against gender based violence?  This annual season runs from November 25 (International Day Against Violence Against Women) to December 10 (International Human Rights Day).  Each year, a new theme is picked, this year: From peace in the home to peace in the world: Let’s challenge militarism and end violence against women!  Over 5, 167 organizations in approximately 187 countries have participated in the 16 Days Campaign since 1991!

PHOTO CREDIT: RUTGERS

When I think about the theme, I think about the peace in the home part. I think about the intense scrutiny placed on queer families and the ways this attention adds to our perception that we need to be perfect so that we don’t give anyone reason to criticize and how this can be dangerous. I think about the ways that this self-imposed pressured based on real external discrimination and condemnation may cause some queer victims of domestic violence not to speak up.

According to HRC, “Studies indicate that LGBT people experience domestic violence at roughly the same rate as the general population. However, LGBT victims are often denied access to domestic violence services, turned away from shelters, mis-arrested as the primary aggressor and denied orders of protection because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.” Research also tells us that:

• One out of four same-sex relationships has experienced domestic violence or mental abuse.
• Over 1/2 of LGBT victims of domestic violence become homeless because of the abuse.
• 85% of service providers working with LGBT victims report the victim had previously been denied domestic violence services because of sexual orientation or gender identity.
• 50% of transgender respondents reported having been assaulted or raped by an intimate partner.
• 31% of transgender respondents identified themselves as domestic violence survivors.

It is time to speak up and speak out. There is help available.

[FEATURED PHOTO CREDIT: HRC]