Did you know that members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community disproportionately experience sexual violence and trauma?

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Research shows that LGBTQ+ individuals are nearly four times more likely to experience violent victimization, including sexual assault, than non-LGBTQ+ individuals. Within the community, specific groups face even higher risks: for example, data indicates that nearly half of bisexual women and a significant proportion of transgender individuals have experienced rape or unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime.

Lesbian, gay and bisexual identities have been associated with higher victimization across the lifespan compared to those with a heterosexual identity, including experiences of child abuse and sexual and physical assault.

Often, this trauma is compounded by minority stressors and barriers to seeking help.

2SLGBTQ+ people also experience various socially produced stressors due to their identities-these are often referred to in the research as minority stressors. Minority stressors include external or distal experiences, such as discrimination and violent victimization, as well as internal or proximal experiences such as internalized stigma (shame), expectations or fears of rejection, and identity concealment.

Everyone deserves to learn, work, and access services in a safe, affirming environment. By understanding this data, we can better foster trauma-informed spaces and advocate for supportive resources.

Need Support?
If you or someone you know needs help, you can connect with confidential, LGBTQ+-affirming support with our trained and licensed team. We are an organization dedicated to supporting transgender and 2SLGBTQIA+ survivors of trauma and sexual violence.

 

At the STA CARE Center, we envision a future free from sexual abuse and trauma. This month and every month, we remain committed to supporting survivors with compassion, dignity, and the resources they deserve.

 

If you or someone you know needs support, reaching out can be the first step toward healing. Our 24/7 hotline is available for survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones. Reach out to us at 785-843-8985 for support, advocacy, and therapy services.