December 07, 2018

Support the LGBTQ and HIV- affected victims of violence

tags:	#LGBTQ Rights, #advocacy and training
located:	USA
by:	Yair Oded

First established in 1980 in the streets of Chelsea, NYC by a group of activists, the Anti Violence Project (AVP) works to protect the safety of members of the LGBTQ community and those affected by HIV.

Violence both within and towards the LGBTQ community and those suffering from HIV remains acute. Alas, in many cases victims of such violence find themselves without access to resources and aid. Often, even those who do reach out and seek help come to realize their pleas fall on deaf ears. And even in 2018, police brutality towards LGBTQ members is still rampant. Particularly rife among the community is domestic violence and hate crimes targeting LBGTQs. 2017, for instance, saw an increase in hate crimes against LGBTQ people; during this year, the highest number of anti-LGBTQ homocides was recorded (52 in only the first half of the year, affecting mostly black and Latinx individuals).

AVP set out to ensure that LGBTQ people and those suffering from HIV can lead a life of dignity, free from violence in their homes and communities.

The organization runs a support network for LGBTQ victims of violence; it offers counseling services, legal services, and operate a hotline through which victims may get help or report a violence.

AVP also offer volunteer opportunities in various local communities around NYC as well as training programs for individuals who wish to learn more about the impact of violence on the LGBTQ community and offer support to survivors of violence.

Visit their website for more information on their counseling, volunteer, and training services.

Image credit: glaad.org