Courtesy of ABC

Violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people can range from bullying in school to workplace harassment to physical violence.

Some LGBT people are actually beaten and killed for being who they are. If someone in your life has been a victim of a hate crime, contact the police first, and then turn to a local chapter of the Anti-Violence Project (AVP) for additional assistance.

To find an AVP in your area, check out the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP). Through public education, training and local programs, this group addresses the pervasive problem of violence committed against and within the LGBT community.

People are actually beaten and killed because of who they love.

LGBT youth face serious problems with bullying and harassment in America's schools. What should be a safe place for learning is instead often dangerous and isolating for many students — gay or straight — who regularly face verbal and physical attacks.

In a study commissioned by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), 4 out of 5 LGBT students reported experiencing harassment frequently in school based on their appearance or perceived sexual orientation. GLSEN found that inclusive anti-bullying and harassment policies, supportive school faculty and the presence of school clubs like Gay-Straight Alliances are all factors that lead to safer schools and better school performance.

GLSEN strives to assure that each member of every school community is valued and respected regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. If you are a student, parent or educator, visit GLSEN.

To find out more about campus hate crimes and university anti-violence and crime prevention programs, check out Stop the Hate.

Rejection and peer pressure can often lead to thoughts of suicide. The Trevor Project offers a 24-hour helpline for gay and questioning teens: toll free 866-488-7386.

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