While sexual violence (SV) occurs across demographics, there are certain groups – like the LGBTQ community – found to be more susceptible. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that sexual and gender minorities are at a higher risk for physical and sexual violence. One of the main driving factors for this is homophobia that may result in hate-motivated sex crimes.
Statistics on LGBTQ Community Sexual Abuse in the US
Akin to heterosexual victims, sexual abusers of members of the LGBTQ may be intimate partners, acquaintances, trusted figures, or strangers. Despite a considerably low number of scientific literature on the incidence and nature of LGBTQ sexual violence, several studies have shown the following results:
- According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 66% of bisexual women, 44% of lesbian women, and 35% of heterosexual women have experienced physical violence, rape, and or stalking by an intimate partner. Meanwhile, 37% of bisexual men, 26% of gay men, and 29% of heterosexual men have experienced the same abuse;
- The 2015 US Transgender Survey showed that 47% of transgender individuals are assaulted in their lifetime;
- The same survey showed that among transgender people of color (POC), 65% American Indian, 59% multiracial, 58% Middle Eastern, and 53% African/American were likely to be sexually assaulted in their lifetime;
- LGBTQ white and African/American victims are more likely to experience intimate partner sexual violence;
- Homeless LGBTQ youth were victimized by seven more people than homeless heterosexual youth;
- Homeless LGBTQ youth are 3 times more likely to engage in survival sex;
- 64% of LGBTQ students reported incidents of rape; and
- Child sexual abuse (CSA) victims were 100 times more likely to be abused by people in heterosexual relationships of a close relative than LGBTQ people.
Apart from homophobia, the intersection of social denominators may aggravate the conditions and stigma against LGBTQ victims. Social class, race, and disability may increase the likelihood of LGBTQ members being physically and sexually abused. WHO cited that possible reasons for how poverty heightens the risk for sexual violence is because poor people are forced into risky occupations like sex work and that they are forced to maintain said occupations even at the cost of sexual violence.
Motivations for Sexual Abuse in and against the LGBTQ Community
There are multiple factors that motivate sexual abusers. Similar to heterosexual victimization, perpetrators may be influenced by their desire to assert dominance against the victim. Because of lowered inhibitions, the use of alcohol and drugs may also be a contributing factor and is often used as an excuse for callous behavior against LGBTQ members, or worse, sexual abuse.
Toxic masculinity in the form of sexual aggression may also be a driving factor for abusers. According to a study, some men find sexual aggression a defining characteristic of manhood. Men who have sexually aggressive peers were likely to report forced sexual contact.
Simultaneous hypersexualization and stigmatization of the LGBTQ community can also contribute to their likelihood of being abused. Perpetrators sometimes threaten to out their victims to families and friends. Others have false notions that LGBTQ people are “interested” or “willing” no matter of your sexual orientation.
A unique factor, however, is that LGBTQ people may be targeted for hate-fueled crimes. Driven by homophobia, transphobia, and general misogyny, LGBTQ people are sexually victimized for deviating from the norm. According to the NSRVC, “Sexual violence against individuals who identify as LGBTQ has been perceived as a violent attempt to oppress those who are challenging social norms around gender and sexuality.”
Barriers in Reporting Sexual Abuse in the LGBTQ Community
There are several challenges for LGBTQ individuals in seeking and receiving post-assault services whether in incidents of intimate partner sexual violence or hate-fueled crimes. These factors may include the following:
- Legal parameters that exclude same-sex marriages or partnerships;
- Fear of homophobia from service-providers;
- Fear of being “outed” to family and friends;
- Fear of retaliation (e.g. workplace harassment);
- Inaccessible of services to certain groups (group homes for men and women may exclude transgender individuals);
- Lack of LGBT-friendly assistance; or
- A distrust with the legal system and authorities.
What To Do for Sexual Abuse Victims in the LGBTQ Community
While nobody wishes for this incident to happen, it’s best to be equipped with the proper knowledge to ensure you’re able to respond to emergency situations. If you or anyone you know has been sexually abused:
- Go to a safe place.
- Contact someone you trust.
- Contact a rape crisis hotline in Illinois, the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Program, or the LGBT National Hotline.
- Visit your local Emergency Department for possible injuries.
- Submit to a medical examination to collect evidence (also known as a rape kit).
- Contact the police to report the assault.
- Contact a lawyer and know your legal options.
If the abuse happened at a place of employment:
- Contact or go to the Human Resource Department, if applicable, and report the incident. Workplaces are required to have sexual harassment policies; or
- Contact the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) and report the incident. The IDHR is responsible for handling sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
- Call a lawyer. If you have been sexually harassed or assaulted, know that you have the right to obtain a lawyer. A legal counsel will help you know your rights and determine if there are legal grounds to file for a lawsuit.
Seeking legal help can sometimes cause internal conflict, especially with the fear of stigmatization. While this is a legitimate concern, know that legal help will always be available. Our attorneys here at America’s Consumer Lawyer strive to provide clients with a place of understanding and non judgment while working hard to maintain your privacy. We advocate for our client’s rights and hold people and institutions accountable in search of justice.
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