Rape is never your fault no matter what your sexual orientation or gender preference is.

When it comes to emotional reactions gay, lesbian, bisexual or trangendered (GLBT) survivors may experience common reactions such as loss of control, fear, anger, distrust, mood swings, flashbacks, nightmares and guilt.

GLBT survivors frequently experience intolerance, hate, and other forms of violence in their lives and this pain compounds the trauma of being sexually assaulted or raped. Sexual assaults have been perpetrated against gay, lesbian, bisexual and trangendered people to “punish” them for their orientation or gender identity. GLBT survivors may also have additional special needs and concerns.

Guilt
Many survivors feel somehow responsible or guilty about what happened to them. Members of the GLBT community may also blame their sexual orientation or gender identity as the reason for the assault. This can lead to feelings of shame and anger towards oneself. Anger and shame can lead to isolation and prevent GLBT survivors from seeking help.

Fear
Many survivors experience fear, but again GLBT survivors may experience additional fears. There is the fear of being “outed” if you talk about or report the assault. There is the fear of being seen as a “traitor” to your community. Also there is the fear that you will be met with an absence or lack of services, that you will not be held or treated with compassion or understanding. The fear of being judged, worrying about how you will be treated by health professionals, law enforcement, the legal system, as well as your friends and family could keep you from seeking help. BARCC as well as other agencies such as the Fenway Community Health Center, have expertise in helping GLBT survivors cope and heal.

Support
Unfortunately research shows that many members of the GLBT community have been raped or sexually assaulted but many do not seek support. BARCC is here to offer support to all survivors. Seeking support is an important part of healing. BARCC offers free comprehensive services to GLBT survivors of sexual assault, including a 24 hr hotline, medical accompaniment, legal advocacy, and individual and group counseling.