Native Americans Experience Higher Rates of Sexual Violence

Sexual assault advocates strive to help survivors of all backgrounds to find justice, healing, and peace. In order to do that, we must recognize that certain populations are disproportionately targeted by perpetrators, and are at an increased risk for sexual assault. According to the Department of Justice, Native women, men, and children are more likely than any other racial group in the United States to be victimized. Some non-Native service providers may be intimidated to work with Native American survivors, for fear of misunderstanding tribal jurisdiction or historical trauma. As service providers, we must be prepared to work with the unique history, strengths, barriers, and traumas of Native American Survivors.

LaFASA has joined 118 Tribal Nations and organizations in signing a national Amicus brief standing in solidarity with Standing Rock activists against the Dakota Access Pipeline. Evidence shows that the construction of the pipeline will lead to an increase of violence against Native women and children in the area, including sexual assault and human trafficking. This puts an already vulnerable group in even greater danger. The Dakota Access Pipeline is not just an environmental risk, but also will increase physical harm to women.

Learn More

Want to learn more about how you can help Native American populations locally? Join local experts from the Houma Nation, Lora Ann Chaisson and Katya Schoenberg, to discuss the history of sexual violence against Native people, tribal populations in Louisiana, and ways to work most effectively with Native American survivors. Registration details below:

Working with American Indian Survivors: A Training for Care Providers Webinar
April 06, 2017 at 10:00 AM
Hosted by LaFASA

If you miss this opportunity, you can view the webinar recording after April 7th, 2017. Go lafasa.org to request your copy and view LaFASA’s recorded webinar archieve.