The Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Domestic Violence

One in four lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are battered by a partner. Yet this is an issue that is still in the "closet" for LGBT communities. Support services are available for those being battered. It is important to note that because Massachusetts has enacted a civil rights law that recognizes the individual rights regardless of one´s sexual orientation, restraining order laws in Massachusetts also apply to LGBT relationships.

If you are battered and in need of support, call your local domestic violence program or hotline and ask about the programs in your area. Below is a list of programs that provide services statewide.

If you live outside of Massachusetts, contact you local domestic violence program or

The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP)
website www.avp.org/ncavp.htm
(212)714-1141

A coalition of over 20 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender victim advocacy and documentation programs located throughout the United States. Can provide referral to programs across the country.

The Network/LaRed
website www.thenetworklared.org
email info@thenetworklared.org
(617)423-7233 v/TTY

Services for lesbian, bisexual women, transgender folks, MTF & FTM transexuals, intersexed folks, and women involved with other women.

  • English/Spanish Bilingual hotline
  • Emergency shelter
  • Support group
  • Advocacy
  • Safety Planning
  • Referrals available including legal services
  • Interpreters provided free of charge

Fenway Violence Recovery Program
website www.fenwayhealth.org
email VRP@fenwayhealth.org
(617) 927-6250
toll-free (800) 834-3242

The VRP provides counseling, support groups, advocacy, and referral services to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) victims of bias crime, domestic violence, sexual assault and police misconduct.

  • Hours: 9-5 EST
  • Legal Advocacy
  • Support groups for battered lesbians and gay men
  • Mental health services (fee charged)

Gay Men's Domestic Violence Project
website www.gmdvp.org
email support@gmdvp.org
(800)832-1901

The Gay Men's Domestic Violence Project is a grassroots, non-profit organization providing community education and direct services for clients. GMDVP offers shelter, guidance, and resources to fellow gay, bisexual, and transgender men in crisis to remove themselves from violent situations and relationships.

  • Community education and direct services for clients.
  • Shelter, guidance, and resources to fellow gay, bisexual, and transgender men in crisis to remove themselves from violent situations and relationships.

Books

  • "Same-Sex Domestic Violence: Strategies for Change" edited by Beth Leventhal and Sandra Lundy, Sage Press
  • "Violence in Gay and Lesbian Domestic Partnerships" By Claire M. Renzetti, Haworth Press
  • "Violent Betrayal: Partner Abuse in Lesbian Relationships" By Claire M. Renzetti, Sage Publications
  • "Woman-to Woman Sexual Violence: Does She Call It Rape?" By Lori B. Girshick, Northeastern University Press