Sandra and Kahukura have both endured violence in intimate relationships. Sandra, a bisexual woman, was the victim of physical, psychological and emotional abuse at the hands of a female partner. Kahukura is takatāpui non-binary trans and suffered severe abuse from two partners. They both talk candidly about the emotional scars left by the abuse and the steps they took to rebuild their lives. They also explore the unique ways family violence shows up in rainbow communities.

Sandra has since founded an organisation called Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura, dedicated to building violence-free Takatāpui and Rainbow communities in Aotearoa.

** Content warning: This episode contains descriptions of or discussion about sexual abuse, attempted homicide, physical abuse, suicide and some strong language.

To connect with Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura, visit https://kahukura.co.nz/.

If you would like support, visit areyouok.org.nz or call the 24/7 Are You OK helpline on 0800 456 450 to speak anonymously to a safe person.

To contact women’s refuge, go to womensrefuge.org.nz or call 0800 733 843.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.