| VT M4M Home Page | Contact Information | Alcohol & Drugs | Facts about M4M in VT | Golden Men | Health Matters | Mental Health | Minority Health | POZ | Safety | Sexual Health | Transgender | VT M4M Calendar | VT M4M Resources | Youth | Site Map
| VT M4M.net Safety: Information about Assault and Violence |
|
Anti-GLBT hate crimes are those in which victims are chosen because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. Hate crimes are also committed based on religion, disability, race, ethnicity and national origin. Hate crimes may include property crimes (like robbery), threats, intimidation or actual acts of physical violence. Hate crimes are unique because they send messages to entire groups - as well as to their families and other supporters - that they are unwelcome and unsafe in particular communities. Most anti-GLBT hate crimes are committed by otherwise law-abiding young people who often believe that they have societal permission to engage in anti-gay violence. (Seattle Health Department) The FBI's Uniforms Crime Report for 1997 shows that almost 14% of all hate crimes are because of the victim's sexual orientation. This is the third largest group reporting violence, with race accounting for 59% of all cases and religion for 17%. However, there is a significant under reporting of crimes based on sexual orientation due to discrimination and stigma. Whatever the level, it is not acceptable. Youth, who report same sex or both sex romantic attractions, are more likely to experience extreme forms of violence, as well as being more likely to witness violence, than their peers whose sexual attraction is to the opposite gender. (Am J Public Health 2001;91:903-906) Domestic violence occurs in the GLBT community. Like any other relationships, where power and control are issues, violence can occur. There are lots of myths about same sex domestic violence. The reality is that it not only does occur, but because of fears of discrimination and stigma, as well as a lack of understanding of what it is, many do little about it. Vermont is fortunate to have Safe Space who is working to end physical, sexual and emotional violence in the lives of GLBT. Services include a support line, survivors group, advocacy, one on one support, referral list and education and outreach. WHERE TO GO FOR HELP IN VERMONT There are resources in Vermont that can assist you, whether your assault has been recent or happened a while ago. You can also find a great deal of information, including participation in support groups on the internet. Safe Space is a social change and service organization working to end physical, sexual and emotional violence in the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning people. Services include:
CRISES HOTLINES Even though a program may have women in its titled, the programs listed below are prepared to deal with men who have issues with sexual assault and violence. Not only can these programs assist with immediate needs, like accompanying a rape victim to the hospital, but they can be helpful in locating resources in your area. Some services do provide a separate support group for men, and all provide one on one peer support. Be advised that in Vermont, all but two hospitals (Gifford Memorial in Randolph and Mt. Ascutney in Windsor) offer Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners. These nurses have received training on conducting a medical exam in the event of sexual assault. This training does include males who have been assaulted.
Sexually Transmitted Disease Hotline provide information about sexually transmitted diseases and referrals to health care providers. All calls are strictly confidential. 108 Cherry St.
Veterans Center-White River: offer counseling to eligible veterans of all wars and conflicts and their families. Also provide counseling for any veteran who has been sexually assaulted or harassed in the military. Services include:
Services are free whether you are seen by one of our counselors or you are referred to one of the mental health professionals who we contract with. Gilman Complex Office
VCPTSA (the Vermont Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Sexual Abuse) provides information and referrals to victims, therapists, and other concerned citizens. We assist callers through the legal process, helping victims receive compensation and advocating for the victim when necessary. We offer training to law enforcement and nurses and a lending library, and we are involved in the development of a network of therapists with expertise in working with sexual abuse victims. 50 Cherry St.
VT Attorney General: Victim Assistance Program The Victim Advocate provides assistance and information to crime victims when the offender is charged in adult criminal court. This includes information on the status of the court case, notification of hearings, preparation of victim for depositions and trial, establishing restitution amounts, assistance in filling out Impact Statements and applications for compensation, as well as providing information to the victim on harassment and protection orders. 109 State Street
Resources for those violated by a priest or clergy
Sexual Assault
Domestic Violence If you are experiencing any of the following....
Hate Crimes |
VT M4M Home Page Contact Information Alcohol & Drugs Facts about M4M in VT Golden Men Health Matters Mental Health Minority Health POZ Safety Sexual Health Transgender VT M4M Calendar VT M4M Resources Youth Site Map |
DISCLAIMER: Materials contained in this website are for information purposes only and do not necessarily imply
endorsement of a particular organization, treatment regimen, medication, health care provider, place of business,
political or religious conviction, or moral philosophy.
Last Modified: December 2, 2003.
Send any inquiries to webmaster@vtm4m.net