Kyler recorded the harassment with their cell phone and managed to record an image of the vehicle’s license plate. When Kyler started to run away the group threw beer bottles at them. One hit Kyler in the back, leaving a nasty bruise.
As a nonbinary person, Kyler felt their gender expression and appearance was the catalyst for the harassment and assault. They were afraid to call the police and possibly receive discriminatory treatment, but felt it was necessary to report the assailants, especially with the videotaped evidence. When the police took Kyler’s testimony they gave them a referral to CAFY for additional support.
Kyler called CAFY’s 24-hour helpline and Kyler was referred to a case manager, who followed up with access to counseling services as well as court companionship and education services. Kyler was relieved to find that CAFY accepted them completely and supported them through the process of pressing charges against their assailants. The counseling services they received helped them feel safer in the world and affirmed their decision to stand up for themselves and others in the LGBTQ+ community.

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