Systems of oppression contribute to higher rates of sexual violence. These systems include racism, sexism, and heterosexism, among others. For those impacted by one or more of these oppressions, the risk of sexual violence increases. Over half of non-Hispanic white lesbian women (58.6%) experienced contact sexual violence in their lifetime.

One in five survivors of same-gender sexual assault and/or domestic violence received victim services. One of the most significant barriers to accessing services is the lack of affirming services. Additionally, LGBTQIA+ survivors face isolation, lack of visibility, lack of support, internalized stigma, fear, safety concerns, and denial of services including shelter. 46% of TGNC survivors felt uncomfortable seeking help from law enforcement and 28% have postponed victim services due to fear of discrimination.

- More than 1 in 4 lesbian women and almost 2 in 4 bisexual women reported to researchers they experienced rape during their lifetimes. 

- 3 in 5 (almost 60%) of both lesbian women and gay men reported experiencing contact sexual violence

- 4 in 5 (almost 80%) bisexual women and over 56% of bisexual men reported experiencing contact sexual violence in their lifetimes. 

There is a critical need to address the broader societal norms and structural inequalities that create harmful environments for LGBTQ+ people.  Prevention programs should include efforts to understand and dismantle systems of oppression, which contribute to higher rates of sexual victimization for people who are oppressed under those systems. A helpful resource:

Pride Beyond June: Building Effective Prevention Strategies to Address Misinformation | Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence