Contrary to
conservative rhetoric, many loving, lifelong partnerships
can be found among LGBT people. Unfortunately, some
problems plague heterosexual and same-sex
relationships alike. A recent report released by the
National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs documents over
3,000 cases of domestic violence between LGBT
partners.
Research gathered
from 3,534 reported incidents of domestic violence
between LGBT individuals in 2006 found the problem affecting
gay and lesbian relationships equally. Transgender
individuals accounted for 5%-10% of these
cases.
As in
heterosexual relationships, the true scope of the problem is
obscured due to the large number of victims who remain
silent about violence at home. Among LGBT
victims specifically, coming-out fears and shame
over sexual orientation keep many from seeking help,
according to the study.
In a press
release, NCAVP executive director Clarence Patton explained
how the report is vital for shedding light on the subject.
"In a changing political climate where issues like
hate-violence legislation and the gay marriage debate
are routinely making headlines, we must ensure that
the voices of survivors and victims of violence within our
communities are heard. Pressure to keep silent about
violence within one's relationship can be
overwhelming, and LGBT-inclusive services are still
hard to come by.
"This report is
an important step in breaking that silence and
contributing to a world where LGBT communities and our
allies support each other, not only in eliminating
discrimination against our communities in
domestic-violence services, but in eliminating domestic
violence itself." (The Advocate)
