Domestic and family violence (DFV) has been declared a national emergency in Australia, with impacts that extend beyond individual harm to broader patterns of structural violence. Yet, despite growing awareness, the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people are often overlooked in mainstream conversations and service responses.
On 28 May, LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day will bring renewed attention to these gaps, highlighting the unique and systemic barriers faced by queer victim-survivors when seeking support.
In support of this cause and the diverse community at Griffith, the Griffith Pride Committee and the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (CEVAW) will co-host a morning tea aimed at fostering awareness, allyship, and community support.
The event, to be held at the Sir Samuel Griffith function space from 11:00am to 12:00pm, is open to the Griffith community and will provide a space to acknowledge a form of harm that remains significantly under-recognised.
Research consistently shows that LGBTQIA+ people (an umbrella term encompassing diverse sexualities, gender identities and sex characteristics) experience DFV at rates equal to or higher than the general population. However, they are less likely to seek help or receive appropriate support. Contributing factors include fear of discrimination, limited access to inclusive and affirming services, and persistent misconceptions that DFV only occurs within heterosexual relationships.
CEVAW’s work continues to address these challenges through an intersectional approach, aiming to better understand and ultimately eliminate gender-based violence in all its forms.
Light refreshments will be provided. Registrations are required – please register here.
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