Not everyone experiences sexual violence the same way. As an organization committed to supporting all survivors and ending sexual violence, BARCC recognizes Native American Heritage Month and stands in solidarity with Indigenous survivors, highlighting the voices of those doing the work to end sexual violence against Native Americans.

Indigenous Americans experience the highest rates of sexual violence compared to any other racial group in the United States:

  • More than 2 in 5 (44%) of Native American and Alaskan Native women will be raped over the course of their lifetime, or a rate about 2.5 times higher than other single racial groups.
  • While data on the Indigenous LGBTQ+ community is limited, the existing research shows that they are at higher risk than other racial groups, with 65% of American Indian transgender individuals experiencing sexual assault at some point during their lifetimes.
  • Sexual violence against Indigenous people is often perpetuated by non-Indigenous people, a trend that can be traced all the way back to Columbus.

Where Can Indigenous Survivors Go?

Indigenous communities are working together to support survivors all across the United States. Locally,, the Native American Indian Center of Boston offers legal and systems advocacy for survivors of domestic violence as well as those experiencing issues related to mental health, the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), and more.

Tribal governments, such as Massachusetts’ own Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe (MWT), are also a great resource for Indigenous survivors. The MWT’s Victim Service Program provides emotional support founded in traditional belief systems as well as helps meet survivor needs including protective orders, victim compensation, and emergency food and shelter.

And, of course, BARCC is always here to support all survivors! Indigenous survivors face unique legal barriers to justice. Our legal team can help survivors navigate these unique barriers, understand their rights and options, and access legal support to ensure their privacy and safety.

In addition, our case management provides culturally-responsive assistance with survivors’ and their loved ones’ immediate and long-term needs. This can include:

  • Accessing health insurance
  • Housing funds
  • Gaining emergency shelter
  • Victim compensation
  • Public benefits

You can learn all about what services BARCC offers on our “Get Help” page.

What Can I Do to Help?

Do you want to support Indigenous survivors in your own community and beyond?  Here are three ways you can get started:

  1. Get informed! It’s not only important to learn about the history of violence against Indigenous Americans. Learn about your local tribes, current issues, and the amazing work Indigenous advocates are already doing to end sexual violence.
    1. To get started, check out the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center’s free virtual webinar, “Violence on Indigenous Lands in Violence on Indigenous Bodies and Futures” on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 1 p.m. ET.
  2. Listen to Indigenous survivors and advocates, and uplift their voices! Whether on social media or in real life, find opportunities to hear survivor stories.
  3. Raise up the voice of Indigenous folks and educate yourself on issues that impact Native communities! Found a helpful resource or event on this issue?  Have your own story to tell? Take to social media and tag @barcc to continue the conversation.

Are you an Indigenous survivor seeking services? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with BARCC. Our confidential, 24/7 hotline provides professional support to survivors, their loved ones, and providers. Call 800-841-8371 any time or chat with our team online any day between 9:00 a.m. and 11 p.m.

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Dedicated to Healing and Empowerment, Advocating for Change.

Together, we can end sexual violence.