Do I Belong Here? Experiences of Transgender Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence in Domestic Violence Shelters

Transgender survivors experience high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) compared with cisgender survivors. In addition, transgender survivors face barriers to seeking help from domestic violence shelters due to concerns surrounding discrimination because of their gender identity. Understanding the experiences of transgender survivors in shelters is critical to ensuring inclusive, gender-affirming services are available. This study used a multi-case study to present the findings of interviews with three trans women staying in a domestic violence shelter that housed women. Findings reveal experiences of micro- and macro-aggressions from cisgender residents within the shelter, the juxtaposition of feeling both safe and unsafe, and discussions around toxic masculinity and male-perpetrated violence. Results demonstrate the importance of culturally responsive training for shelter staff and educating shelter residents to increase inclusiveness for transgender survivors in domestic violence shelters.