Sex, sexuality and gender diverse communities are increasingly recognised as vulnerable to intimate partner and sexual violence, but very little is known of specific experiences of people from these communities in Aotearoa New Zealand due to a lack of research and Rainbow specific services.
The Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura – Outing Violence survey was developed through drawing on international violence surveys, surveys specifically targeting sexuality and gender diverse populations, our analysis of existing research about partner and sexual violence in Rainbow communities and discussions and feedback from the Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura – Outing Violence advisory group about community experiences.
The survey was answered by 407 people with diverse ethnicities, gender identities, ages and sexualities. It found concerning levels of both partner and sexual violence, including many forms of psychological abuse and isolation that are specific to people in Rainbow communities. The survey also found that most people in the Rainbow community were not seeking help in relation to partner and sexual violence, and those that who did seek help from specialist agencies often did not experience that help as supportive.
The report was re-released in July 2024, with a report card grading the government's response to the 2016 recommendations.