Creating Safe and Inclusive Shelter Spaces for LGBTQ+ Survivors

Participants surveyed at St. Louis Pride were asked, “What do you think would be the most helpful for LGBTQ+ persons who are being abused by their partners?” Those in this survey could select their top three options from a list of potential supports. However, only 14% of respondents identified a domestic violence agency as a helpful resource. This workshop examines some of the causes behind that, identifies ways domestic violence agencies and shelters, in particular, can increase the visibility of their services for LGBTQ+ survivors, and works through inclusive intake practices. This workshop provides participants with an opportunity to practice responding to anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric in the workplace, whether harmful comments come from colleagues or clients. If LGBTQ+ clients are to feel safe accessing our shelters, we must provide visual cues of inclusiveness, examine policies and procedures to ensure inclusivity, and work toward creatingtrauma-informed spaces where LGBTQ+ clients feel seen, respected, and empowered.