Hate Crimes & Violence
No one should face violence because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Yet LGBT people are disproportionately the victims of bias-motivated harassment and assault, even murders. Violence against individuals because of real or perceived sexual orientation is one of the most prevalent forms of hate-motivated violence in the U.S., and, though underreported, violence against transgendered individuals may in fact be the most prevalent of all anti-LGBT violence. In addition to hate-motivated violence, same-sex domestic violence deserves real, responsive attention.
Legal organizations have a dual responsibility to LGBT survivors of violence: to provide them with resources and support, and to make sure the law is responsive to their needs. GLAD helps people understand their rights, find out how the law protects them, and connect to competent, sensitive legal and support resources.
In Your State
Specific laws can vary greatly from state to state. For more information, please visit a state page:
GLAD’s Work On This Issue
Violence comes in many forms: threats, intimidating harassment, assault, bias-motivated crimes, domestic violence. In whatever shape it rears its head, GLAD advocates to expand existing protections to make sure LGBT people are fully protected by the law.
From the Docket
Ayer v. Sommi & Keller
GLAD was instrumental in obtaining a favorable ruling from the Massachusetts Appeals Court that domestic violence laws protect gay, lesbian, and… More →
Legislative Advocacy
Working for Trans Protection Legislation in MA
Legislation to protect citizens from discrimination based on gender identity or expression is pending in Massachusetts. A hearing before the MA Joint… More →