As the UK marks LGBTQ+ History Month, Latin American Women’s Aid (LAWA) is reflecting on its own history – a journey of resilience, advocacy and transformative change. For decades, LAWA has been at the forefront of supporting Latin American and global majority women fleeing gender-based violence, and in 2018, it took a groundbreaking step: securing funding to establish a specialist service dedicated to lesbian, bisexual and transgender women.
A history of advocacy and support
LAWA’s mission has always been clear: to provide a safe and inclusive refuge for Latin American women facing domestic violence. However, the reality for LBTQ+ survivors presented unique challenges. Many mainstream domestic violence services lacked the cultural competence or understanding to address the specific barriers queer survivors face. Recognising this gap, LAWA launched its LBTQ+ Outreach Project, ensuring that no woman was left behind, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
From its early years to the present day, the project has faced significant hurdles. With limited resources, outreach remains challenging, and trust within the community continues to be built from the ground up. Survivors often hesitate to seek help due to stigma, internalised homophobia, or fear of discrimination, barriers that persist today. Additionally, authorities frequently fail to recognise that domestic violence can occur in same-sex relationships, leaving LBTQ+ women without adequate protection or risk assessments, an issue that remains a critical concern in our services.
Where we are now: Expanding support and breaking barriers
Since its inception, LAWA’s LBTQ+ services have grown exponentially. The organisation has not only provided life-saving refuge to survivors but has also engaged in critical advocacy to change the landscape of support for LBTQ+ women. By working with embassies, consulates, and statutory services, LAWA has strengthened referral pathways and increased visibility for queer survivors.
A key component of LAWA’s work is addressing intersectional challenges. Many LBTQ+ women fleeing domestic abuse also face migration-related vulnerabilities. Abusive partners often use threats of deportation as a tool of coercion, leaving survivors trapped in dangerous situations. For many, returning to their home countries is not an option due to widespread homophobia and transphobia in legal and social structures. Through its migration support services, LAWA provides legal referrals, safe housing and guidance, ensuring that survivors are not forced to choose between violence and deportation.
A continued fight for justice and representation
Despite significant progress, barriers remain. Many LBTQ+ women still struggle to access services due to language barriers, lack of awareness or systemic discrimination. Representation in mainstream domestic violence services remains low, making it difficult for survivors to feel understood and supported. Research by organisations such as Galop highlights that LBTQ+ survivors are disproportionately affected by insecure migration status and often denied access to essential resources.
However, LAWA continues to push forward. In 2023 alone, the LBTQ+ Outreach Project engaged over 300 individuals, providing direct support, training, and awareness-raising initiatives. LAWA has played a vital role in major events such as Black Pride UK and the first Latin American Pride in England, amplifying the voices of queer Latin American survivors and advocating for systemic change.
Celebrating progress, recognising the work ahead
UK LGBTQ+ History Month is a time to honour the struggles and achievements of the past, but it is also a reminder of the work that still lies ahead. LAWA remains committed to challenging the myths surrounding same-sex domestic violence, educating communities, and ensuring that LBTQ+ women receive the support they deserve.
By raising awareness, strengthening networks, and advocating for policy changes, LAWA continues to create a space where queer Latin American women and women from the global majority can access safety, dignity and justice. This month, we invite everyone to reflect, engage, and support our mission. Share our story, spread awareness, and stand with us in ensuring that no LBTQ+ woman is left behind.
For support or more information, contact: [email protected].
