Penn State Gender Equity Center highlights LGBTQ+ domestic violence through Clothesline Project

The Penn State Gender Equity Center hosted two t-shirt-making sessions this week, on Monday and Tuesday, as part of the national Clothesline Project. The initiative, which focuses on raising awareness of power-based violence, highlights issues within LGBTQ+ communities through decorated shirts.

Kate Rawson, assistant director of the Gender Equity Center, emphasized the importance of amplifying marginalized voices.

“Unfortunately, domestic violence also happens within queer communities and queer relationships,” Rawson said. “Having those messages of support and visibility, like ‘you’re not alone, you matter,’ can be helpful, especially for survivors or those who need support.”

The Gender Equity Center plans to display the shirts throughout October in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, continuing its efforts to shed light on these often-overlooked issues.

“When people hear domestic violence, they often think about straight relationships, like a man abusing a woman,” Rawson said. “When thinking about our community, specifically the LGBTQ+ community, I think it’s super important.”

For more information on upcoming events, including the Clothesline Project, visit studentaffairs.psu.edu/events

Gavin Rollman is a fourth-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email gmr5526@psu.edu.