Read on Twitter
PSA THREAD: Folks often mistakenly believe men don’t qualify for domestic violence services. That’s a dangerous idea. It makes domestic violence shelters the target of men’s right activists. If you ever hear someone spreading that lie, please do me a favor.
Point them to this document from the Department of Justice, which outlines the non-discrimination rules governing federal grants to domestic violence shelters. https://www.justice.gov/sites/default/files/ovw/legacy/2014/06/20/faqs-ngc-vawa.pdf
Also, please initiate a conversation about what to do if they or a friend have been turned away from domestic violence services based on their gender. Don’t pressure them to disclose any details about the situation.
Simply let them know that shelters that refuse to serve men are violating federal law. (very rare exception: shelters that don’t use federal funds) Encourage them to use the guidelines in that DOJ document to report any such incidents.
Folks concerned about this issue typically aren’t speaking from personal experience. Many have been misinformed & are earnestly worried that our society doesn’t do enough to protect men.
Therefore, it’s important not to be dismissive when correcting them. Rather, express empathy for male victims of domestic violence & share the good news that our legal system already includes robust protections for them.
In my experience, the field of domestic services is extremely committed to gender equity. As it should be. Bad actors who subvert that norm legitimize the men’s rights crusade against the field & have no place in our movement.
Finally: men attacking the field are often acting in bad faith. Misogynists. Abusers themselves. This info is still relevant if you find yourself engaging with one of these types, but above all, remember it’s not on you to “help” violent people. Distance yourself & be safe!
