In this program, AWS responds to the needs of queer and transgender survivors of relationship violence. By organizing queer and transgender communities within Asian Pacific Islander populations, we help open up the dialogue about family and relationship violence and engage communities in developing effective responses to violence. Queer Asian women are particularly vulnerable to multiple forms of oppression — including homophobia and racism — and often avoid approaching conventional programs offered to mainstream populations.

AWS is unique among domestic-violence shelters in offering these services to the queer and transgender population; repeatedly, we’ve learned from survivor stories how different systems and social-service agencies have failed to recognize the needs of these underserved communities. QAWS offers outreach and non-shelter support — through trainings and our crisis hotline, as well as through informal meetings and gatherings — and a shelter program that is accessible to queer and transgender survivors.

As part of this effort, AWS has developed a Peer Resource Model, supporting friends to respond when they see the signs of abuse and giving community talks about domestic violence to raise awareness and open the door to change and a happier, healthier future.