Trigger Warning: In this episode we talk about sexual violence against Native women. If you need help or to talk to someone here are some resources you can call or chat: the StrongHearts Native Helpline at https://strongheartshelpline.org/ 1-844-7NATIVE, National Domestic Violence Hotline at https://www.thehotline.org/ 1-800-799-SAFE or the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) at https://www.rainn.org/ 1-800-656-HOPE. 

1 in 2 Indigenous women have experienced sexual violence. Even with this staggeringly high statistic, it’s near impossible for Indigenous women to access the care and support needed. Juskwa Burnett, Indigenous Advocate, Moccasins of Hope, talks to us about her experience working with Indigenous sexual violence survivors and the ways in which sexual violence impacts her community. In addition, Tarah Demant, Interim National Director of Programs, Advocacy, and Government Affairs with Amnesty International USA, sits down to talk to us about healthcare and judicial barriers faced by Indigenous women as it relates to sexual violence and Amensty International USA’s new report detailing the barriers erected by the U.S. government when it comes to Alaska Native and American Indian women’s access to healthcare and support after experiencing disproportionate rates of sexual violence. 

 The United States’ response to this epidemic of sexual violence is confusing and maze-like, preventing Indigenous women from being able to access the healthcare they need or get justice for crimes committed. This complex system results in confusion and chaos, and further exacerbates the sexual violence epidemic faced by Indigenous women. The root of this problem is based in the US’s erosion of tribal authority, allowing for these extremely unfortunate circumstances to flourish, despite the fact that this country is obligated to protect Indigenous communities under the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People. 

When Indigenous women require healthcare and services after experiencing sexual violence, many simply can’t access it. Health centers are located far away from villages and reservations, and Indian Health Services (IHS) is federally underfunded to a point where it is an open question whether or not a rape kit will be available. The justice system in Indian country is also massively federally underfunded and complicated, leading to a lack of prosecution for sexual violence crimes.

Links

Amnesty International USA on Twitter

Amnesty International USA on Facebook

The never-ending maze: continued failure to protect indigenous women from sexual violence in the USA

StrongHearts Native Helpline

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