Still Hidden in the Closet: Trans Women and Domestic Violence

This article addresses the issue of domestic violence against trans women and examines some of the factors that make trans women particularly and uniquely vulnerable. It discusses the ways in which social and legal structures governing gender identity contribute to an abuser’s ability to isolate their victim. It also illuminates the ways in which the conscious and unconscious transphobia of service providers heightens this isolation. Finally, it discusses the recent reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act and the impact that proposed changes may have for trans survivors of domestic violence.