“If I was straight and white it would be different: they would believe me”: The experiences of gay Latino and/or Black male sexual assault survivors when disclosing being sexually assaulted.

Featuring Daniel Jacobson López, Assistant Professor, BU School of Social Work and Faculty Affiliate, Center for Innovation in Social Work & Health

Dr. Jacobson López will discuss a topic that is often ignored in academia and in society: the experiences of gay Black and Latino male sexual assault survivors when disclosing being raped to authorities and medical care providers. Drawing on the experiences of men in four different cities in the United States, this talk will cover the effects of racism and homophobia on the reporting process and in service provision by reporting authorities and medical care providers.

Dr. López will discuss how many of the men were subjected to mistreatment by medical care providers and how the men were re-traumatized throughout the process. Practical (direct practice) and policy-based recommendations will be provided for those wishing to best engage with gay Latino and/or Black male sexual assault survivors an evidence-based, trauma-informed and culturally responsive manner in an effort to enhance the well-being of these men.