Sexual violence is a far too common thing throughout Native communities. According to the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, Native Americans are 2.5 times more likely to experience sexual violence in their lifetime. As we know, this may be even higher due to the lack of reporting common in Native communities. Sexual violence is any […]
In February, Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month raises awareness for the unique needs Indigenous youth have and the impact healthy relationships can have for Native communities moving forward. While one-quarter of all high school girls have been victims of physical or sexual abuse, a 1992 Minnesota youth study found that 92% of American Indian girls […]
When we say, “domestic violence is not traditional,” it is to remind Native Americans of a time before colonization. It’s a glimpse into a past when times were good. Instead, our memories only extend to the depths of colonization and the devastating impact it had on our people. Whether we know it or not, our […]
The oppressive nature of European ideas about civilized societies, acceptable cultural practices and religious beliefs accompanied the colonizers to the “New World” in the 16th century. Native peoples felt the immediate brunt of racial discrimination, which continues today. Those who were not “white” were seen as dirty, savage and unworthy of justice. These biases and […]