Domestic Violence in SameSex Relationships

392  |  A Legal guide for Lesbian and Gay Couples
Domestic Violence in Same-Sex Relationships
Domestic violence and abuse do exist in the LGBT community. While
there is still some denial about this, the community has become more
responsive in recent years, and there are many more resources now
available to those in crisis.
If you are the victim of domestic violence, your number one concern is
your own safety. You may be ashamed, embarrassed, or feeling guilty, but
it’s most important that you get out of your living arrangement and into a
safe environment. If you are a lesbian, contact a battered women’s shelter.
If you’re concerned about encountering homophobia—or if you’re a gay
man with no shelter to turn to—then go to a friend or supportive relative.
A few states, including California, Massachusetts, and Ohio, cover
same-sex relationships in their domestic violence statutes. This means that
you can get a restraining order to keep the abuser away from you. You
may need the help of a lawyer or women’s clinic, but many counties now
offer self-help information for restraining orders, either online or at the
courthouse.
Resource
Learn more about dealing with domestic violence. Go to www.
rainbowdomesticviolence.itgo.com, for research and links on domestic violence in
the gay and lesbian community.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline, at 800-799-SAFE, is a toll-free
number that provides information to callers (gay and straight) about shelters and
assistance programs in their area. You can also check out the hotline’s website at
www.ndvh.org.
The New York City Gay & Lesbian Anti-Violence Project maintains a website at
www.avp.org, and a 24-hour hotline number, 212-714-1141.
San Francisco’s Community United Against Violence has a hotline at
415-333-HELP, and a website at www.cuav.org.
Gay Massachusetts residents can contact the Gay Men’s Domestic Violence
Project at 800-832-1901. Their website is at www.gmdvp.org.
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