The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) has learned of the homicide of LGBTQ rights activist Bruce Garnett, age 67, in Chesterfield, Virginia. According to local NCAVP member organization, the Virginia Anti-Violence Project, Bruce was found stabbed to death in his home on April 21st, 2017, and had been dead for several weeks before he was found. Bruce identified as gay, and had been an early LGBTQ rights advocate and activist in Virginia.
“Older adults, specifically LGBTQ+ older adults, are particularly vulnerable to both isolation and abuse/violence,” said Stacie Vecchietti, Program Director at the Virginia Anti-Violence Project. “All of VAVP’s services are welcoming and accessible to LGBTQ+ adults over 50. This includes our individual/group support and advocacy services, relationship skills classes, wellness events, and survivor retreats. VAVP is also available to provide training to providers of aging services to deepen their organizational capacity to provide affirming and welcoming services to LGBTQ+ older adults.”
Read the full statement from the Virginia Anti-Violence Project here.
NCAVP is a resource for anyone who experiences violence. For more information, or to locate an anti-violence program in your area, please contact us at info@ncavp.org or visit us online. Join NCAVP in our efforts to prevent and respond to LGBTQ and HIV-affected violence. To learn more about our national advocacy and receive technical assistance or support, contact us at info@ncavp.org.
If you are a member of the media, please contact:
Sue Yacka, New York City Anti-Violence Project: syacka@avp.org or 212-714-1184
NCAVP works to prevent, respond to, and end all forms of violence against and within lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and HIV-affected communities. NCAVP is a national coalition of local member programs and affiliate organizations who create systemic and social change. NCAVP is a program of the New York City Anti-Violence Project.