Anti Violence is Anti Genocide.

As an organization dedicated to supporting and advocating with LGBTQ+ survivors of violence, the New York City Anti-Violence Project(AVP) is deeply devastated by the ongoing genocide and human rights violations in Gaza and the Palestinian occupied territory.

To our Arab LGBTQ+ siblings and allies, we want you to know that we are here for you. Our doors remain open and accessible to all LGBTQ+ survivors and our staff and volunteers offer care and resources to ensure you have a safe space where your voices are heard and your needs are met. We at AVP stand in solidarity with all the Palestinian people in the United States and abroad, and with the people of Lebanon who are experiencing devastating escalating violence. Absolutely no one should face violence, persecution, or discrimination, based on their identity, nationality, or where they live.

AVP has, for 44 years and counting, held and channeled the grief and rage of LGBTQ+ survivors - especially QTBIPOC - of profound harm to push systemic change. Whether through counseling and advocacy services, through base building and community organizing, through comprehensive legal supports, or through coalition building, reporting and policy advocacy initiatives, AVP has sought to honor its role as mindful witness and champion of a just and kind world. We are here to hold and honor the anguish of our relatives grieving the impossible horrors of genocide in Palestine and beyond In the tradition of restorative, lasting, equitable care and healing, we acknowledge that the histories of systemic brutality have disproportionately harmed our Arab relatives, and this must be named and seen to be honestly and accountably addressed. As an organization dedicated to combating violence in all forms, we cannot move through the work without acknowledging the way war impacts the communities we at AVP serve.

October 7, 2024, marks one year since the escalation of this mass destruction and displacement of native Palestinians from their land. We acknowledge that the suffering of the Palestinian people has its roots in the Nakba of 1948, when displacement first began. For decades, Palestinians have endured ongoing apartheid, systemic oppression, forced displacement, and a denial of basic human rights, and as the largest LGBTQ+ anti-violence organization in the United States, we stand in solidarity with Palestine.

For our community members who are on the streets standing for Palestinian Liberation, we commend you for continuing to show up for a free Palestine and want to offer you these tipsto stay safe during direct action.