Identity Based Resources
With each identity, we have included educational videos, online communities to connect with, hotlines, and websites to browse through with even more resources. This page (like the entire website) is a living document. The amount/type of resources we have included are based on what we could find currently. Some sections have no content and some have very limited scope -- we want to continuosly expand what survivors can access. Please email us at uvasurvivors@gmail.com to ask questions, request to modify/include resources, or to add any other identities.
We have broken down this section into survivors with identities as follows (with further section breakdown below): BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Disabled, Childhood, Traditional Faith, Male, Undocumented & Immigrant, and Military Members.
Click your identity below to bring you to that section.
*Content Warning/Trigger Warning: sexual violence for all content on this page*
Table Of Contents
BIPOC
"At Vidcon 2015, we sat down with Kat Blaque, Skittlez, and Lindsey Doe to talk about how sexual violence disproportionately impacts people of color."
Panelists talk about the intersection of race and sexual assault, examining the reasons for prevalence of violence and 'silence' in specific communities.
Black Survivors
UNRAPABLE: Racism, Hypersexualization, and Sexual Assault in Black Communities
"In this presentation, Nwando Ofokansi from the Katie Brown Educational Program links anti-black racism and oppression to the prevalence of sexual violence in Black communities. The presenter provides a historical background of racism in Black communities and highlights the connection to the silence of Black female rape survivors. Using real-life case studies and examples from media, interactive exercises and discussions, this workshop teaches better and effective ways of preventing and responding to sexual violence of Black women and provides recommendations for best practices."
How Can We Combat Domestic Violence In Our Communities? | Listen To Black Women
In this episode of Listen to Black Women, they discuss how they can combat domestic violence within the Black community.
Why Do We Silence Black Girls and Women Who are Survivors of Sexual Violence?
Felice Leon narrates the history of sexual violence and its affects on the Black women and the Black community in the past and today. The voices of Black girls and women have been silenced and their identities sexualized, their stories rarely believed. Even today, when the Me Too Movement has largely
Suffering in Silence: The Emotional Abuse of Men | Dr. Timothy Golden
"Dr. Golden shares how men can overcome the pain of emotional abuse."
The Art of Manipulation - My Survival of Molestation
"This video is my attempt to reach out to those who may have been psychologically manipulated and perhaps physically manipulated and molested as children under the guise of love and trust. You are not by yourself. It happened to me too. And I stand with you publicly without reservation willing to add my story to the countless others that have suffered in silence. NO MORE!"
Stop Killing Us: Black Transgender Women's Lived Experiences
"In just eight days this summer [2020], six young Black transgender women — Brayla Stone, Merci Mack, Shaki Peters, Draya McCarty, Tatiana Hall, and Bree Black — were killed, bringing the total of transgender women killed in United States in 2020 to at least 22. The Human Rights Campaign, who track fatal violence against the transgender community, say this is the deadliest period they have on record. The HRC has "never seen such a high number at this point in the year," and are horrified by these rampant and repeated murders. The Black transgender community is already a vulnerable population, but anti-transgender stigma, systemic racism, denial of opportunity and a lack of essential resources, infrastructure and policy that provide safety and protection have deteriorated their well-being and ability to thrive. In this episode of Complex World, Black transgender women share their lived experiences, amplifying the call to action and battle cry that #BLACKTRANSLIVESMATTER."
Casa Ruby Wesbite here - located in D.C.
Healing vs. Retaliation: Surviving Trauma and Sexual Abuse
When the tragedy of sexual abuse struck Peter (“Pops”) and his daughter Adenike (“Ade”), they were faced with two life-altering paths: retaliate against Ade’s stepfather who had repeatedly sexually assaulted her from the time she was fourteen, or choose to strengthen their own relationship. Together, the two worked to create an inspiring system of support for one another that will change the way you think about love. Affectionately known as “Popsnade,” the father/daughter allies challenge, “What do you need to begin your healing foundation? Therapy? Non-abusive allies? Whatever you choose, it will require that you dig in. It hurts, it’s tough, and it is a consistent lifestyle change. But it is so worth it.”
Radical Self Care
Alicia Garza explains that the mainstream idea of self care is reserved for white and wealthy people. She gives examples for how they practice radical self care in the Black Futures Lab and other activist spaces.
Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse & Trauma | Mental Health | Legacy Speaks
"at least 1 in 6 males have experienced sexual abuse in their lifetime and statistics show that it's not uncommon for the abuse to take place in childhood. Today we're dispelling myths, talking signs and risk factors, and discussing what we can do to help our male survivors."
Ujima Community: The mission of the National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community is to mobilize the community to respond to and end domestic, sexual and community violence in the Black community. We actualize this mission through research, public awareness and community engagement, and resource development. Ujima serves as a resource to Survivors of violence, Advocates and service providers and The community at-large
The Safe Place App: Apple----Android
""The Safe Place" Is a Minority Mental Health App geared towards the Black Community. African Americans are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the rest of the general population. However, many black people still do not wish to seek professional help for their mental illnesses. The Purpose of the "Safe Place" is to bring more awareness, education, and hope to this serious issue. Not only can the black community benefit from this app, but also mental health professionals, friends, and family, of ALL colors can be better educated on this issue and do a service by directing their black friends, co workers, etc. to the app."
App features Include
* Black Mental Health Statistics
*Inspirational Black Quotes
*Self Care Tips*Breathing Techniques Meditation Exercise*Mental Health Videos And Podcast*Mental Health Articles*Open Fourm Discussions*And More!
Sisters of Color Ending Sexual Assault (https://sisterslead.org/) : This organization focuses on providing access to identity based organizations nationally and locally for Black/African-American, Indigenous, Latinx, and Pacific Islander survivors. They support leadership of people of color, advocate for policy change, and provide training assistance and education.
Girls for Gender Equity (GGE): "an intergenerational grassroots organization committed to the physical, psychological, social, and economic development of girls and women. Through education, organizing and physical fitness, GGE encourages communities to remove barriers and create opportunities for girls and women to live self-determined lives.”
Black Women's Blueprint: wide range of resources for Black commmunity members -catered towards women, however the information is useful to people of all genders. A resource to learn about the history and impacts of sexual violence within the Black community. "We work to place Black women and girls’ lives, as well as their particular struggles, squarely within the context of the larger racial justice concerns of Black communities."
A wellness and healing space for black sexual assault survivors. They center healing and self-love through visual storytelling and dialogue around sexual trauma and the Black female body.
Soul 2 Soul Sisters: HERstory: for Black Womxn Healing Beyond Abuse. "Soul 2 Soul Sisters hosted a panel discussion honoring the stories of Black Women survivors. While domestic violence can impact any body, Black Women are particularly vulnerable. The purpose of this discussion was to cultivate a sacred space for Black Women's unique experiences, address the stigma and discuss resources to help end domestic violence. Join us in silencing the shame and lifting up our sisters and siblings in their journey to healing beyond abuse." *This is also for Christian survivors - discusses spiritual abuse*
Check out their resource page for more healing articles, podcasts, and techniques.
https://soul2soulsisters.org/black-womens-healing-resources/
Indigenous Survivors
A Broken Trust: Sexual Assault on Tribal Lands
This short documentary covers the struggles of survivors in the Sioux and Assiniboine tribal lands. From difficulty accessing resources, to corrupt police and judges, and to facing further violence, they rarely find justice. This is unfortunately the truth for most Indigenous people around the United States.
The Indigenous Doctor Helping Trans Youth:
"Alberta, Canada. Doctor James Makokis identifies as "two-spirit" - a term used by and for indigenous LGBT+ people in North America who identify with both masculinity and femininity, and which harks back to pre-colonial third gender roles. On the First Nations reservation of Kehewin Cree Nation, Dr Makokis spends much of his working life supporting other “two-spirit” people, particularly transgender teenagers, many of whom face persecution within their own communities."
We are more than murdered and missing. | Tamara Bernard
"With a talk that encourages hope, love, empowerment and igniting a new way of learning together as a nation, Tamara lays bare the world of violence impacting indigenous women. Wearing a high heel on one foot, and a moccasin on the other....we view things through her lens, where indigenous women are more than "murdered and missing. Much more. ""
Mending the Sacred Hoop works from a social change perspective to end violence against Native women and children while restoring the safety, sovereignty, and sacredness of Native women."
National Indigineous Women’s Resource Center:
Webinars, fact sheets, booklets, videos, research papers, toolkits, training curriculum, and more.
StrongHearts Native Helpline | 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483): American Indian and Alaska Natives 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. https://www.strongheartshelpline.org/
Native Love has a youth focused portion; webinars, recordings of domestic violence discussions and other healing resources.
Indian Law Center: non-profit that has lots of missions for Native people, one project focuses on safe women, strong nations. Free legal assistance for indigenous people and free guidance for indigenous communities to build safer communities.
Indian Law Resource Center 601 E Street, SE Washington, DC 20003
Email: dcoffice@indianlaw.org
202.547.2800 phone
Latinx/e Survivors
"The Fetishization of Latinas" by VivaBella by Xtina
Xtina gives an overview about the difference between preference and fetish of a Latina woman. Shares her own experience of being deemed exotic, spicy, hot-tempered, etc. based on stereotypes set out by the world of men.
"If the guy actually tries to get to know you as a person then it's more safe to say that you are the type of woman that he prefers"
Reaching Latino Male Survivors of Sexual Violence
"When Latino male survivors of sexual violence make the decision to disclose their abuse or seek support, we want to ensure that rape crisis centers are prepared. This webinar focuses on the key considerations needed to enhance outreach efforts to Latino male survivors of sexual violence. Attendees will be equipped with strategies, messages and resources to support these outreach efforts."
One Woman's Journey to Overcome Domestic Violence
Bilingual National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1 (800) 799-7233 (SAFE)
Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence - Action Alliance Click Here
Many resources for different types of abuse
An interactive map to help you find resources near you!
You deserve safety and support. Whether someone has hurt you in the past or is hurting you now, we’re here to listen, and connect you to resources closest to you. Free. Confidential. 24 hours a day. 7 days a week. 365 days a year. We believe in you. We respect your choices. We are here for you.
Interactive Map at the bottom for finding resources near you in the state of Virginia with options that allows you to see all resources in Spanish!
The Alianza Latina en contra la Agresión Sexual (ALAS) - Click Here
"The letters in the acronym "ALAS" spell out the word for "wings" in Spanish. A group discussion of the word pepó which in Guaraní (one of the primary native languages still spoken in Paraguay) means to "give your child wings" for development, independence, and advancement - led to unanimous confirmation of the name.
The Alianza Latina en contra la Agresión Sexual (ALAS) is a national Latinx-led membership network of victim advocates working to address and prevent sexual violence. Through collaborative efforts and cyberactivism, ALAS promotes the leadership of Latinx victim advocates and develops models, resources and policies to empower communities and eliminate access barriers for survivors. ALAS honors the diversity of the Latinx culture by respecting the similarities and differences of our languages and histories."
Encuentro Latino - National Institute on Family Violence
NOT for survivors to get help - This page is just another resource website for educational purposes (handouts and powerpoints good, everything else old and unhelpful): http://www.latinodv.org/resources.php
Latinos in Virginia Empowerment Center - Click Here!
Serves local and statewide
Has a 24 hour hotline to call for help
Entire website is in Spanish
Has a resources tab for specific help
Virginia Victim Alliance Network
Search city and it gives you resources for legal help related to sexual assault and domestic violence in your area - if this is something you want to legally pursue.
https://vanetwork.org/?s=charlottesville&submit=Find+Resources
Latino Health Resources Guide
by Medicare Advantage
Lists resources based on category and state: so for Virginia it shows resources for sexual health, domestic violence, VA department of health, etc. Check the map on this page for resources in your state!
https://www.medicareadvantage.com/latino-health-resource-guide#
Pan-Asian Community
Violence: Through the Lens of Lesbians, Bisexual Women and Trans People in Asia
"Lesbians, bisexual women and transgender (LBT) individuals in Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines and Sri Lanka face violence and exclusion in every sphere of their lives. This violence is fueled by laws that criminalize same-sex relations and gender non-conformity and encouraged by governments who tolerate, endorse, or directly sponsor the violent clamp-down on those who do not follow prevailing norms on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.
This is the main finding from research coordinated by OutRight Action International and conducted over a two-year period by women's rights, sexuality rights and gender rights activists based in Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines and Sri Lanka"
Christine's Story: Raising Awareness About Domestic Violence | NBC Asian America
"Christine Lee shares her story about leaving an abusive relationship, and how, as a survivor of domestic violence, she hopes opening up about her past will help others in the future."
Advocates from the Asian community share their thoughts on why education and resources are so important to ending violence.
Womankind 24-Hour Multilingual Helpline: 1.888.888.7702
Calling our 24-hour, free helpline opens the door to all the services of Womankind.
Highly trained helpline advocates can answer general questions about domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual violence across the lifespan. We speak English, Spanish and 18+ Asian languages and dialects, including Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Tagalog, Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, and Vietnamese.
Helpline advocates can provide crisis counseling and help develop basic safety plans to use if you are not yet ready to seek help. They can give information about our services including residential, community based programs, and make referrals when appropriate. You only need to disclose as much information as you feel comfortable with at that time. If you are interested in more ongoing counseling or case management support or need further assistance, an advocate can be assigned to work with you long term. If an advocate who speaks your language is not immediately available, we will ask for a safe time and phone number to call you back.
Asian/Pacific Islander Domestic Violence Resource Project (DVRP)
"Since 1996, the Asian/Pacific Islander Domestic Violence Resource Project (DVRP) has provided services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. Our mission is to address, prevent, and end domestic violence and sexual assault in Asian/Pacific Islander (A/PI) communities while empowering survivors to rebuild their lives after abuse."
Includes awareness toolkit, a hotline, learning resources on domestic violence and SA, ways to get involved with the community, and more. Options for different languages.
Center for the Pacific-Asian Family 24-hr Multilingual Hotline; This hotline is open 24 hours with availability in English and many other Asian and Pacific Islander languages and dialects
Call: 1-800-339-3940
https://nurturingchange.org/help - Center for the Pacific-Asian Family resources site by language
https://napiesv.org/api-sexual-assault-organizations/
National Organization of Asian and Pacific Islanders Ending Sexual Violence (NAPIESV) resource site for anti-sexual assualt organizations across the country and pacific islands. Lists all types of resources agencies based on identity. The ones listed for VA are: tahirih justice center, artemis house, Asian/Pacific Islander Domestic Violence Resource Project,
South Asian Survivors
The Language Of Domestic Abuse in South Asian Communities | Sangeetha Menon
"A startling look at the epidemic of domestic abuse in South Asian Communities highlighting the lack of language/translation for the term "domestic violence" and what this means for South Asian women living in the United States. In this compelling talk, community activist Sangeetha Menon seeks to lift the shame felt within this community by shining a light on the issue and inviting others to do the same."
Domestic Violence awareness interview: Marzana Rahman
"Part 1 of an exclusive interview with domestic violence survivor Marzana Rahman."
Marzana is a Bengali survivor of a violent marriage.
The Taboo Around Sexual Assault in South Asian Cultures
Presentation by Anum Khan on the cultural norms that enable rape culture and silence survivors. She talks about the effects assault has on survivors and ends with ways South Asians can works to end violence.
"Sakhi for South Asian Women exists to represent the South Asian diaspora in a survivor-led movement for gender-justice and to honor the collective and inherent power of all survivors of violence. Sakhi is committed to serving survivors through a combination of efforts including—but not limited to—direct services, advocacy and organizing, technical assistance, and community outreach"
ASHA for women is a group based in D.C. that empowers South Asian women to overcome domestic violence and become self-reliant.
Call Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-888-417-2742
KIRAN is a group for South Asian people experiencing domestic violence in North Carolina
Call Hotline: 1-877-625-4726
East Asian Survivors
We are currently still looking for testimonies and stories of healing from East Asian survivors. Please send us any content you may have. For hotlines and immediate resources, please look at the resources listed under Pan-Asian Community.
Pacific Islander Survivors
Gender Inequality & Domestic Violence
"This video animation is produced by SPC’s Regional Rights Resource Team ( RRRT). The video covers gender inequality, the link between gender inequality and domestic violence, and how domestic violence impacts development."
Making it Safe to Speak about Sexual Abuse | Doris Tulifau
"Doris explains how cultural norms in Samoa make it more important to create safe spaces for those impacted by domestic violence and sexual abuse. Doris Tulifau is a survivor, educator, activist and organizer ensuring that there are safe spaces for our future generations to talk about trauma before they deal with it as adults. She founded the Brown Girl Woke feminist group that promotes young women and men to empower them on taboo issues happening in the Samoan community especially on domestic violence and sexual abuse."
Child sexual abuse survivors open up about abuse | Survivors Part 1
"One in three girls in New Zealand may be sexually abused before they turn 16, and the statistics are worse for boys. Although there are no specific statistics for Pacific communities, sexual abuse is common, and child abuse survivors are calling for more awareness and open communication in the hopes of protecting our children.
Host Alistar Kata chats with Inu Akerei Maresala-Thomson, Co-Founder of award-winning app MyRivr, Utumo'u Kaisalina Mealamu, a public servant and former youth worker, and Uipo Uipo Tagaloasa, Ōtāhuhu businessman of Bettalifestyle Fitness"
Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence: Advocacy for Pacific Islanders
A basic overview of sexual violence in the Pacific Islander Community, including fact sheets and reports on the affects of violence & strategies to end it.
Center for the Pacific Asian Family
"Center for the Pacific Asian Family (CPAF) was founded to help address domestic violence and sexual assault in the Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Call our helpline and speak to a counselor who can help with issues of domestic violence and sexual assault at 1-800-339-3940." (ADD LOGO)
The Guam Coalition Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence (GCASAFV)
This website includes ways to connect with the survivor community, trainings, a hotline, and ways to seek help.
American Samoa Alliance Against Domestic Violence and Seuxal Assault (Alliance),
This wesbite includes podcasts, webinars, and other support for Samoan Survivors.
LGBT2SQIA+
These tactics of abuse are used against those in the LGBTQIA+ community, by partners both in and out of the community. Red flags such as these will tell you whether or not you are in a healthy, supportive relationship. If you want to get a closer look at this chart, click here.
LGBT Young People experiencing domestic abuse
"As part of our Spotlight on LGBT+ people and domestic abuse, we spoke to Evelyn Sharpe from RISE. Evelyn spoke about the barriers faced by her clients, and how services can better support LGBT+ victims and survivors of domestic abuse."
Family Violence Against LGBTI Community
"In 2018 Family Safety Victoria ran a workshop with LGBTI people who have experienced family violence. Participants were asked about their experiences of the family violence system and barriers to accessing support. In this video family violence workers Rei Alphonso and Vincent Silk present some of the key insights from that workshop. Findings from this work are informing family violence responses, including a number of LGBTI family violence initiatives."
"A survivor-led, social justice organization that works to end partner abuse in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, SM, polyamorous, and queer communities. Rooted in anti-oppression principles, our work aims to create a world where all people are free from oppression. We strengthen our communities through organizing, education, and the provision of support services."
National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs "We work to prevent, respond to, and end all forms of violence against and within LGBTQ communities. We’re a national coalition of local member programs, affiliate organizations and individual affiliates who create systemic and social change. We strive to increase power, safety and resources through data analysis, policy advocacy, education and technical assistance."
The Northwest Network: The NW Network of Bi, Trans, Lesbian and Gay Survivors of Abuse works to end violence and abuse by building loving and equitable relationships in our community and across the country.
Lesbian & Gay Survivors
I Never Thought About Sexual Violence As Something That Could Be Perpetrated By A Woman.
"In her late teens, Marissa entered into what would quickly develop into a toxic and manipulative relationship, culminating in her girlfriend coercing her into an unwelcome sexual encounter with a third person. Though she remained in that relationship during her rocky transition to college, Marissa was eventually able to cut ties with the woman and focus on her own well-being and her queer identity."
Signs Ya Boo Might Be Abusive | Lesbian Domestic Violence
Tenia points out the red flags in lesbian relationships, from her perspective as an abused partner and when she was the abuser. Learning these signs has helped her find healthy partners and build healthy relationships. If you realize you were/are an abusive partner, there is a way to be accountable and grow from your mistakes. If you are/were abused, learn these red flags to know when to leave.
Can I have sex after assault and trauma? Lesbian Sex 101 - Stevie Boebi and Jimanekia Eborn
"Tips and guidance about how to enter into sexually consensual relationships for both survivors and allies. Open communication, trust, and support are the keys to enjoyable sex with your partner(s)."
Brotherhood TV: ONE on ONE Domestic Violence in the Gay community
"Brotherhood TV talks about the signs to be aware of to know if you are in an abusive relationship. The cast of Brotherhood TV sits down with a LA Red rep and a survivor of Domestic Violence"
Gay Man Works Through Trauma Of Sexual Assault. “I Am A Lot Happier Now That I’ve Done This Work.”
"Nicholas’s earliest sexual experiences were the opposite of what they should have been: violent and traumatic. While this could’ve understandably derailed anyone’s path in life, Nicholas found strength and recovery through therapy and came away with valuable lessons - the importance of boundaries and the need to assert yourself, no matter who you’re dealing with."
G.L.I.T.S Gays and Lesbians Living In a Transgender Society
"We approach the health and rights crises faced by transgender sex workers holistically using harm reduction, human rights principles, economic and social justice, along with a commitment to empowerment and pride in finding solutions from our own community. The first issue we address is that of immediate need/crisis support for transgender sex workers, including community members from the NYC area, across the US and globally through supporting asylum seekers from our priority communities...G.L.I.T.S. also advocates and educates to ensure health, wellness and inclusion of transgender people in our society and to address the stigmatization and criminalization of trans people because of anti-prostitution/anti-sex work laws."
Bisexual Survivors
We are currently still looking for testimonies and stories of healing from bisexual survivors. Please send us any content you may have.
Art by Lydia Ortiz
Why Bisexual Women Are at a Higher Risk for Violence: Teen Vogue
"In a recently published paper, she argues that three factors make bi women more likely to be abused. First, cultural stereotypes portray bisexual women as constantly sexually available, regardless of our consent. Second, high rates of substance use across the LGBTQ community leave us vulnerable to violence. Finally, biphobic harassment—being targeted especially for our identities—ups our risk...too often, people blame bi identity for what is, in reality, preconceived notions about bisexual people that promote society-wide discrimination. This focus on discrimination is called the minority stress model, and it’s exactly how it sounds: Being a minority is stressful, and that stress can make our lives worse across the board. “Living under stress is exhausting,” says Ochs. “It’s not good for our health.” This is especially true for bi women of color, transgender bi women, and poor bi women, who experience multiple kinds of stigma."
Transgender/Gender Non-Conforming Survivors
Stop Killing Us: Black Transgender Women's Lived Experiences
"In just eight days this summer [2020], six young Black transgender women — Brayla Stone, Merci Mack, Shaki Peters, Draya McCarty, Tatiana Hall, and Bree Black — were killed, bringing the total of transgender women killed in United States in 2020 to at least 22. The Human Rights Campaign, who track fatal violence against the transgender community, say this is the deadliest period they have on record. The HRC has "never seen such a high number at this point in the year," and are horrified by these rampant and repeated murders. The Black transgender community is already a vulnerable population, but anti-transgender stigma, systemic racism, denial of opportunity and a lack of essential resources, infrastructure and policy that provide safety and protection have deteriorated their well-being and ability to thrive. In this episode of Complex World, Black transgender women share their lived experiences, amplifying the call to action and battle cry that #BLACKTRANSLIVESMATTER."
Casa Ruby Wesbite here - located in D.C.
Trans Women Open Up About Their #MeToo Sexual Assault Experiences
"For all of the Hollywood #MeToo movement’s merits and virtues, there’s one major blind spot: How sexual assault and violence against trans women has been omitted from the conversation."
Trans/Non-binary Individuals and Intimate Partner Violence: A brief overview
"This webinar shares some trans-specific stats related to violence trans people experience. It also looks at 2020-current events that shape and impact trans communities and trans survivors. A discussion of trans-specific IPV tactics is briefly reviewed, followed by a discussion of barriers to accessing care for trans IPV survivors. This brief resource ends with practical things you can do (now!) to better support trans survivors, and a list of resources where you can get more information."
Why violence against transgender Americans is a crisis that’s under reported
"A recent series of murders of transgender victims is causing growing concern, particularly for trans women of color. It comes at a time when trans celebrities are more accepted in pop culture than ever before -- but also as the Trump administration aims to roll back Obama-era discrimination protections for transgender people. Amna Nawaz talks to the Anti-Violence Project's Beverly Tillery."
Trans Men and Domestic Abuse
"There is no room for violence in love. Trans men experience domestic abuse and feel afraid or embarrassed to talk about it. It's time to open up a conversation."
READ MORE on The Advocate
Why Do Transmasculine People Tend to Stay in Abusive Relationships: https://bit.ly/2VRgPy4
Trans Men Experience Far More Violence Than Most People Assume: https://bit.ly/2XfkWFG
Provides training, resources for trans and non-binary folks, and much more.
Trans Women of Color Collective
"At Trans Women of Color Collective, our work centers healing and restorative justice. As we build economic growth and development for our community, we are enhancing the capacity of future leaders. Pouring into the lives of Black trans folk is a revolutionary act."
Two Spirit Survivors
Two Spirits, One Voice
"Two Spirits, One Voice is a community-based initiative that seeks to bolster supports for persons that identify both as LGBTQ and Indigenous –Two Spirit people. Funded through the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, this programs with works with educators, healthcare workers, law enforcement and other community service providers to ensure that all services within a community are equipped to provide inclusive and cultural aware services with regards to gender and sexuality.
Learn more at www.egale.ca/2S
Smudge, Don’t Judge: Assisting Two Spirit/Trans Survivors of Violence
"No More Silence is collaborating with Maggie's Toronto Sex Worker Action Project to create a resource for service providers to assist them in providing better care to Indigenous community members who have survived violence. The resource addresses the transphobia and homophobia that Two Spirit, Trans and Gender Non-Binary Indigenous people often experience when they seek services."
Intersex
We are currently still looking for testimonies and stories of healing from intersex survivors. Please send us any content you may have.
"Intersex victims of abuse may face specific forms of abuse because they are intersex. In addition to “traditional” forms of abuse and the abuse described in What forms of abuse are unique to LGBTQ victims?, intersex people are vulnerable to abuse based on ignorance or bigotry about their bodies. Intersex victims of domestic violence face similar or higher rates of domestic violence when compared to the general population. In one study from 2007, 50% of intersex victims of domestic violence reported being raped by a romantic partner. Here are some of the behaviors abusers may use to gain power and control over intersex victims:
threatening to tell the victim’s friends, family, or coworkers that they are intersex without their permission;
pressuring the victim to behave in a way that conforms to specific gender stereotypes;
pressuring the victim to take medications or have surgeries to change their body to conform to a specific set of sexual characteristics;
telling the victim that they are not a specific sexual orientation (for instance, that they are not gay) because they are intersex; and
accusing the victim of “tricking” the abuser because the victim’s body does not look like what the abuser thinks a person of that gender should look like. --Women's Law
Asexual
Sexual trauma and asexuality (TW: talk of sexual trauma) | Slice of Ace
"There is a misconception that asexuality is due to sexual trauma, and that if you are traumatised, you can't be asexual. Neither are true.
I'm going to covering three topics in this video:
Defining asexuality and its link to sexual trauma
People who identify as asexual because of sexual trauma (and why that's valid)
Corrective rape in the ace community"
Survivors With Disabilities
I'm most proud of surviving as a black, disabled woman in this world
"Colleen Chifamba is the creator behind the award winning blog, Life Through The Disability Lens. We chatted to Colleen about her experiences as a Black woman with disability, her relationship with her body, what she's most proud of and how we can all be a part of a better, more inclusive, respectful and equal world."
instagram.com/herwordsseries I facebook.com/herwordsseries I www.herwords.com.au
Physical Disabilities
Serving Deaf Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence
VERA Institute for Justice - How to help Deaf survivors
"Recent research suggests that Deaf women experience higher rates of sexual and domestic violence than their hearing counterparts, but are often shut off from victim services and supports that are ill-equipped to respond to their unique needs. As a result, they are denied access to services that could help them safely flee from abuse, heal from trauma, and seek justice after they have been harmed. This policy brief offers practical suggestions for expanding and enhancing Deaf survivors’ access to victim services and other supports."
Resources for Deaf Survivors
Abuse in Deaf Communities Hotline
VAW Net -- Deaf Culture This resource provides an overview of Deaf culture, interpreters, and other helpful resources.
Blind Women Face Sexual Abuse and Assault in 'respectable' jobs as Massage Therapists in China
"When Xiao Jia lost her sight at the age of 14, she was told that a “respectable” career choice would be for her to become a massage therapist. But she and many other practitioners later discover that the risk of sexual abuse and assault is a grim reality of their work."
Resources for Blind Survivors
People with Mental and Physical Disabilites are Most Vulnerable to Abuse
"About 54 million Americans live with disabilities. 22News found out how Massachusetts is protecting the disabled from abuse and neglect."
Resources Disabled Survivors:
RAINN Covers the nuances surrounding sexual assault and consent for people who are disabled.
Mental and Developmental Disabilities
Sex Abuse Against People with Disabilities is Widespread -- and Hard to Uncover
"People with developmental disabilities become victims of sexual assault at a rate seven times higher than those without disabilities, according to a Justice Department figured uncovered by a year-long NPR investigation. Judy Woodruff sits down with NPR’s Joseph Shapiro and Nancy Thaler from the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs to discuss why the problem has received little attention."
Key Points from the video:
People with mental disabilities on average experience assault 7x more than those without a mental disability
Many people wrongly assume that those with a mental disability do not have sexual desires; therefore, there is no need to teach them sex ed
Statistically, 86% of people with a mental disability are assaulted by someone they know
The Me Too movement does not include the story of people with disabilities enough
Resources for Survivors with Mental Disabilities:
Disability Justice Provides legal assistance for people with disabilities who have been sexually abused.
Traditional Faith
Muslim Survivors
Sexual Abuse in Muslim Communities (Sumaya Abubaker)
"Sumaya Abubaker shares her personal story of surviving sexual abuse, describes the challenges survivors like her face, and sheds light on the path we must all take forward."
Is it love?: Understanding the difference between unhealthy attachments and pure love
Yasmin Mogahed explains how to tell the difference between unhealthy and healthy love through scripture in her crash course on "Is it love?: Understanding the difference between unhealthy attachments and pure love"
Are You Being Abused?
Omar Suleiman shares parts of the Quaran to help survivors heal from the abuse they have faced in emotionally, physically, or sexually abusive relationships. He uses scripture to help survivors find strength to leave unhealthy relationships and have trust that justice will come through God even if it doesn't come in the dunya.
Domestic Violence awareness interview: Marzana Rahman
"Part 1 of an exclusive interview with domestic violence survivor Marzana Rahman"
"We get it. Talking about sexual health and violence is difficult. We know this because many Muslims have shared being shamed into silence, their stories not being believed, or not knowing how to access accurate information and services. We’re determined to change that...Since 2010, we have provided sex education, training, and sexual assault advocacy to nearly 10,000 individuals, organizations, and campuses across the country."
https://www.interfaithpartners.org/supporting-muslim-victims-survivors
Includes the Muslim Domestic and Sexual Violence Wheel, Islamic teachings of support, and webinars on support for Muslim surivors.
https://assets2.hrc.org/files/assets/resources/HRC-MUSLIM_GUIDE.pdf for Muslim LGBTQ Community
BEYOND HALAL AND HARAM: MUSLIMS, SEX, AND RELATIONSHIPS WEBINAR
"There is a dearth of resources for American Muslims related to sex and relationships, and some American Muslims may encounter cultural barriers that prevent them from discussing these issues with family and community members. High levels of discrimination against Muslims and Islamophobia also propel the need for more understanding about how to provide trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive violence prevention services to this diverse community. Health centers and community-based settings play a crucial role in reaching high school and college-aged American Muslims with messages about healthy and unhealthy relationships. This webinar will describe an evidence-informed universal education intervention on relationships and its impact on health, which can be used in a variety of settings."
Prevention and education against all types of abuse in Muslim families; contains toolkits, loads of domestic violence resources and links to programs
Faith US - Northern Virginia; assists financially with temporary aid to overcome traumatic life events. Domestic violence program, self-sufficiency program
Jewish Survivors
Rabbi Avremi Zippel discusses years of sexual abuse, road to recovery
Avermi Zippel is a Rabbi who in recent months revealed he was severely sexually abused by a nanny from the time he was a young boy into his late teens.
He sat down with Bob Evans to discuss the trauma, his road to recovery and his message to other survivors.
Rivka Joseph's Story and Message to Incest Survivors: There's Hope
Rivka Joseph, a young mother from Cleveland and active member of JCW, addressed the crowd, disclosing the abuse that she suffered as a child at the hands of her own brother. She informed the crowd about how common incest is and just how painful it is for the victim. “A survivor of incest is sentenced to a lifetime of secrecy,” she said. “And the reward for telling the truth can be losing your family.”
Includes the Jewish Domestic and Sexual Violence Wheel, Jewish teachings of support, and webinars on support for Jewish surivors.
JSHAN :
Contact us now for support groups starting soon. Groups are limited to ten participants. To arrange to speak in confidence with a facilitator about joining a support group, send an email to:
SupportGroup1@jshan.org for those who experienced sexual harassment or abuse in Jewish settings as an adult.
SupportGroup2@jshan.org for survivors of child sexual abuse in Jewish settings and their loved ones.
The Awareness Center: "We operated from April 30, 1999 - April 30, 2014. This site is being provided for educational & historical purposes. We were the international Jewish Coalition Against Sexual Abuse/Assault (JCASA); and were dedicated to ending sexual violence in Jewish communities globally. We did our best to operate as the make a wish foundation for Jewish survivors of sex crimes. In the past we offered a clearinghouse of information, resources, support and advocacy."
If You Were Sexually Abused as a Child, Here Are 8 Things to Know from Chabad.org. Author Asher Lipner
Christian Survivors
My Sexual Abuse Survivor Story
"Jackie Hill Perry an author, poet, bible teacher and hip-hop artist. Since becoming a Christian, she has been compelled to use her speaking and teaching gifts to share the light of the gospel of God as authentically as she can. In this video she shares her story as a survivor and how Christianity helped her heal."
Understanding God’s Heart for the Abused | Sandals Church
"In this sermon, we’re joining the conversation about God’s heart for the abused and how to get help when it feels like life is anything but good. If you know someone eager for answers about where God is in all of this, invite them to watch. Pastor Matt Brown will be facilitating an essential conversation about sexual abuse with his wife Tammy Brown and Sandals Church worship leader Christina Crowley."
SNAP for survivors who have been assaulted by priests and other clergy.
"Empowering Christian communities to recognize, prevent, and respond to abuse. "
General resources for survivors and family of abusive clergy.
"Soul 2 Soul Sisters hosted a panel discussion honoring the stories of Black Women survivors. While domestic violence can impact any body, Black Women are particularly vulnerable. The purpose of this discussion was to cultivate a sacred space for Black Women's unique experiences, address the stigma and discuss resources to help end domestic violence. Join us in silencing the shame and lifting up our sisters and siblings in their journey to healing beyond abuse." *They discuss Christian beliefs, shame, guilt, and spiritual abuse*
Sikh Survivors
Jagmeet Singh discusses his father's alcoholism, sexual abuse and racial discrimination
Sikh Youth Show - Survivor Speaks Out About Sexual Grooming
Sikh Family Center promotes community health and well-being with a special focus on gender justice. We provide trauma-centered interventions for victim-survivors of violence while working to change the social and cultural conditions that allow gendered violence to occur in the first place. Our training, outreach, and advocacy are grounded in cultural tradition, grassroots power, and intergenerational healing.
Confronting Sexual Abuse in Sikh Spaces - an article
Call for More Content for Traditional Faith Survivors
If you are part of a traditional faith community not seen on this page, please send us any resources you may have.
Childhood Survivors
Healing Adult Survivors of Child Abuse | Fire-Brown
"Hear Fire-Brown discuss how she turned a childhood of abuse and tragedy into triumph and advocacy. She shares how healing oneself can help start a movement of healing others. Originally from Newark, New Jersey, Fire-Brown is an adult survivor of child abuse who has made her home in Metro-Atlanta for the past 20 years. There, she is the Founding Facilitator of ASCA-Atlanta, a weekly self-help support group for adult survivors of childhood abuse."
Holly Austin Smith: A Survivor Story
"Holly shares her story to provide a deeper understanding of the experience of child sexual abuse survivors in a way that is educational"
Being a Survivor of Male Child Sexual Abuse | Harish Iyer
"Braving the stigma of male child abuse by a family member nonetheless is a large ordeal. But nothing could stop the staunch determination of Harish Iyer to come out and now work strongly as an influential activist. He is a story of overcoming your fears and prevaling over it."
Survivorship.org Survivorship is one of the oldest and most respected organizations supporting survivors of extreme child abuse, including sadistic sexual abuse, ritualistic abuse, mind control, and torture. Includes many resources and the ability to pay via sliding scale for membership that gets you access to their newsletters and conferences.
Heal 2 End. HEAL (Hidden Encounters Altered Lives) is a project that aims to prevent and end CSA by making visible the hidden tools used to guilt, shame, coerce and inflict violence onto children. The primary strategies are: Building Community, Critical Analysis, Social Media Campaigns, Mobilization and Education.
Just Beginnings Collaborative a movement building platform designed to initiate, cultivate and fund strategic efforts to end child sexual abuse. Their work is grounded in the practice of leaders, organizations and funders working together to build a vibrant, sustainable movement.
Male Survivors
Men Need To Talk About Their Sexual Abuse
Pastor Seth Shelley takes us on an emotional and at times difficult journey about male sexual violence. He brings forward his own story of sexual assault to ask men to open up about their personal stories too.
Reimagining masculinity; my journey as a male sexual assault survivor
"As a survivor of sexual assault, Landon came to view his life as one broken into many pieces. He offers a unique perspective on how we can move forward as a society in dealing with not just male survivors but all victims of sexual assault. Landon shares his story and explains the factors that prevented him from seeking help from anyone for months after the assault. Landon has had to learn how to view himself as a man, while rebuilding his own identity and masculinity. He details how breaking down his own identity from the ground up and finding his own version of manhood after a life changing experience has shaped who he is today."
Breaking the Silence of Male Trauma
"Little is known about male trauma and Dr. Debra Warner explains that men are also suffering sexual assault. Dr. Debra Warner is a leading forensic psychologist, trauma expert, author, and speaker who specializes in male trauma. She is the spouse of a male survivor and authored “His History, Her Story, a Survival Guide for Spouses of Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Trauma.”
Suffering in Silence: The Emotional Abuse of Men
"Dr. Golden shares how men can overcome the pain of emotional abuse."
Know Your IX - Article on Male Surivors:
"Male survivors exist with certain privileges simply for being male, but also face a unique set of circumstances. When discussing sexual violence and how it impacts male survivors, there are frequent misconceptions about how it affects their lives and communities. I hope this guide will help contextualize how this violence impacts male survivors and help support others."
1 in 6: Some resources include-
Free and confidential weekly online support groups for men who have experienced sexual abuse or assault and 24/7 online hotline
A wealth of useful information on topics related to male sexual abuse and assault, including answers to common questions.
Trauma-informed trainings and webinars for service providers and organizations around the world.
"Thousands are already taking part in honest, moderated discussions on a variety of topics related to healing and getting the most out of life. Read about trauma — and how men just like you have learned to cope with and even overcome its effects. Plus, get access to therapists, support groups and other resources."
Undocumented and Immigrant Community
Legal Rights & Services for Undocumented Survivors of Sexual Violence
Keighly Rector, associate attorney and assistant director of The Alliance's Victim Rights Center of Connecticut, shares information about the services The Alliance is able to provide survivors of sexual violence who are also faced with immigration uncertainty. This webinar includes information onU visas, T visas, VAWA petitions, Special Immigrant Juveniles, asylum, etc.
Between Worlds: Immigrant Women and Domestic Violence
This video focuses on the unique challenges immigrant women face in navigating the road to independence that arise from language barriers, cultural differences, social isolation, and economic insecurity stemming from their inability to obtain legal employment. Five brave survivors of domestic violence describe the hurdles they faced in escaping abusive circumstances, accessing social and legal services, and attaining legal immigration status. Social workers, health care providers, law enforcement officers, and lawyers who wish to assist immigrant victims of domestic violence should find this video useful.
ASISTA’s mission is to advance the dignity, liberty, and rights or immigrant survivors of violence. They provide technical assistance and resources to those assisting noncitizen survivors of violence in the immigration law arena.
Directory of resources for survivors, including mental health and legal services.
Linked here is the Northern Virginia Family Services
Military Members
Sexual Assault Survivors Are Pushing The Military To Have Its #MeToo Moment
"advocates and survivors say the nation’s largest employer — the U.S. military — has yet to see meaningful reform. On April 30, the Department of Defense reported a 10 percent rise in sexual assault reports from October 2016 to September 2017, across all branches. The Pentagon attributes the rise to a growing confidence in the military justice system, but some advocates, survivors, and policymakers are skeptical, considering the report also notes that of the 5,110 reports of sexual assault in 2017, just 166 lead to a conviction in 2017.
VICE News spoke with retired Staff Sgt. Merci McKinley about her own experience with sexual assault, as well as Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, who has been pushing for legislative reform to the military justice system for years."
Heath's Story of Surviving Military Sexual Assault
"When his commanders would not stop sexual assaults by his shipmates, Heath went AWOL and then accepted a dishonorable discharge to end his torture. Now he is speaking out to change the way military rape is handled. This is his story.
Protect Our Defenders Foundation is a human rights organization. We honor, support and give voice to the brave women and men in uniform who have been raped or sexually assaulted by fellow service members. We seek to fix the military training, investigation and adjudication systems for sexual harassment, assault and rape --systems which often re-victimize assault survivors by blaming them and failing to prosecute perpetrators."
Protect Our Defenders (POD) is the pre-eminent national human rights organization dedicated to ending sexual violence, victim retaliation, misogyny, sexual prejudice, and racism in the military and combating a culture that has allowed it to persist.
We honor, support, and give voice to survivors of military sexual violence. We seek reform to ensure all service members are provided a safe and respectful work environment free from misogyny and racism, and have access to a fair, impartially administered system of justice.
The Service Women's Action Network (SWAN) is a group for women who are currently serving or have served in the military. This group advocates for housing, healthcare, gender equality in the military, and advocates for policy change. This link takes you to the page for resources (counseling & legal help) if you have experienced sexual assault as a woman in the military.
DoD Safe Hotline: a 24 hr hotline with trained military sexual trauma professionals. This hotline is anonymous, confidential, and secure.
Call: 877-995-5247