The Network/La Red — the survivor-led, social justice organization working to end partner abuse within the LGBTQ+ community — is calling for more resources to prevent the kind of domestic abuse that led to two recent murders in Boston and Millbury, Massachusetts.
Reports NBC TV-10:
Jose Aponte was found dead in his apartment in Boston in early December. His boyfriend, Michael Perry, who police said tried to escape out of a window on the 12th floor, is now charged with his murder.
Aponte’s friend, Jarvid Cortes, said had he had no idea Aponte was suffering.
“I kept thinking, ‘Why did he not reach out?’ It breaks my heart that somebody would suffer in silence,” Cortes said.
Aponte is the second victim of homicide within the LGBTQ+ community in Massachusetts in a matter of months. Back in October, police said Ryan Charles Anderson of Millbury was stabbed to death by his boyfriend, Kevin Donnellan.
The incidents have advocates sounding the alarm.
“It signals to us how much work still needs to be done and how little partner abuse is understood within our community,” Beth Leventhal of The Network/La Red said.
Leventhal started her organization, which works to end partner abuse, shortly after her own experience. She said more support groups need to mention the LGBTQ+ community specifically in their outreach and materials. Many still screen based on gender.
“What does that say to someone who is being battered by another woman? What does that say to a man who is being battered by another man? What does that say to people whose gender does not fit within that binary? It is essential to have services, outreach and materials that mention us, otherwise we’re going to assume we’re not welcome,” Leventhal said.
Leventhal encouraged those who need support to call The Network/La Red’s 24-hour hotline at 617-742-4911.
“I just want people to know there is help out there,” Cortes said.
Find out more at The Network/La Red’s website.
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