Health Services
LGBTI ISSUES AND SEXUAL ASSAULT
Sexual assault, interpersonal violence and stalking occur at the same rate in the LGBTI community as in the general population, although the reporting rate is lower.
LGBTI survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence have the same questions and issues that other survivors face. They need to decide who to tell, where to get medical help, whether or not to report the crime, and how to deal with their feelings as they recover.
- What should I do if I have been sexually assaulted ?
- Where can I get help on campus?
- What resources are available at Sexual Assault Services / Rutgers University Newark ?
- What can I do if the assault occurred off campus ?
- What will happen if I go to an emergency room ?
- Can I get help if the assault occurred in the past ?
- What are my rights if I am a victim of sexual assault ?
- What legal or administrative action can a victim take against a perpetrator after an assault occurs ?
LGBTI survivors may also face other unique issues:
- Many people do not believe that same sex rape happens, or they may think it is “not as bad”
- Survivors may be reluctant to betray the queer community, or to “out” themselves or their assailant.
- Many survivors have had previous experiences with bigotry and intolerance, and may anticipate that they will not be believed or that they will be ridiculed.
- Victims of hate crimes may internalize things that were said to them during the attack and be reluctant or afraid to come forward.
- Individuals who engage in sexual practices outside the mainstream may be reluctant to disclose their relationships or behaviors.
FACTS:
Sexual assaults are crimes of violence, control, and humiliation. The victim is never responsible for the perpetrator’s actions, even if:
- The attacker was an acquaintance, date, friend, partner, or ex-partner
- You have been sexually intimate with your attacker in the past
- You were drinking or using drugs.
- You froze, and could not or did not verbalize “no” or fight back
All survivors deserve equal and respectful treatment and services. An advocate from a Rape Crisis Center can provide intervention and support.
Sexual Assault Services/Rutgers University Newark 973-353-HELP
Essex County Rape Care Center 1-877-733-CARE