Invisible Victims: Men In Abusive Relationships

[Veilex]

2. "I was honestly surprised the numbers were not higher for those in the gay community for abuse."

Bear in mind, they say from the start that these numbers are likely severely under-reported.

Even being a progressive myself, and a self-proclaimed Egalitarian, I find it very difficult to speak up about whatever ails me, or whatever sociological issues I'm dealing with.

I recognize it for what it is: programming by society to "Be a man"... often without knowing what that even means. After all, there are so many sources that want to control exactly what it means to "be a man" from the Church and politicians to Corporate media and the cult of Machismo... heck, even Disney got into the action with the song in Mulan, "Be a man".

So, rule number one trained into most men? Don't complain... its not manly. If you complain, its only because your not a real man.
This singular rule is so ingrained into men and our culture, that even progressives have a hard time fighting for their own rights. I'm very fortunate in that my wonderful Fiancé watches out for me... because, frankly, I suck at it (uh oh, I've committed a cardinal sin here... I've shown weakness). Because of all that lovely training and reinforcement, I fight everyday to be a more open person... but its far easier to fight for someone else's rights than to stand up for my own. But I digress.

I'm happy to hear you've gotten out of that toxic relationship!
You're lady friend is a good one!
Nothing quite so valuable as someone who'll stand up for you...even when others wont.