BR Indigenous Sexual Abuse – CP

Prominent First Nations leaders say it’s time to shine a light on sexual abuse in their communities.

The national chief of the Assembly of First Nations says there is no question that sexual abuse and incest is among Indigenous peoples.

He says First Nations leaders must stand up and encourage people to expose the problem.

Overall in Canada research has shown that one in three girls and one in six boys experience an unwanted sexual act.

But experts say it’s hard to assess the prevalence of abuse among indigenous populations.

They point to the fact that the issue is so taboo within communities that it often remains shrouded in silence.

The man who headed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission frequently heard horrifying tales about sexual abuse.

But Murray Sinclair says he has no way to know the true extent of the problem.

He says there is a need to find better ways of gathering information so solutions can be found.

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SAF

(The Canadian Press)

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