When we think of November, we often associate it with Thanksgiving and the beginning of the holiday season. But there’s another significant observance we should remember: it’s Native American Heritage Month. This is a time when we honor the vibrant cultures, rich histories, and meaningful contributions of our Native American brethren. Yet, amid the celebration, it’s also crucial to shed light on a heart-wrenching issue that many in these communities face – sexual assault. Imagine this: According to the U.S. Department of Justice, more than half of Native American women have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime. That’s over twice the rate compared to other races. These aren’t just numbers; they’re people, with families, dreams, and lives that are being devastated. Even more troubling is the fact that over 95% of these cases involve non-native offenders. This means justice is often elusive due to the complex legal status of tribal lands and jurisdictional issues, leaving many victims feeling helpless and unheard. The alarming rates of sexual assault are deeply intertwined with other challenges Native American communities face: poverty, substance abuse, limited access to healthcare, and scarce resources for victim support. These aren’t separate issues; they’re all parts of a complex […]