Pathfinder Center is taking our cause to end sex trafficking to the men of our reservations; Crow Creek and Lower Brule, therefore we held two gatherings; “Calling All Warriors” Defend the Sacred Against Sex Trafficking.” On June 6th we gathered with some of the men from Lower Brule, and on June 7th with men from Crow Creek. In both groups, we discussed strategies and ways they can help protect women and children from sex trafficking and sexual abuse. Pathfinder Center assured the men that we are here for them and can assist and provide resources so they can get involved to make a difference.
Our discussions with both groups were insightful and serious. One of the discussions that I believe, and it was brought up, was that our boys are sexually abused at the same rates as Native girls of which 1 in 3 will be sexually assaulted by the time they are 18. Boys are targeted even more so by the perpetrators because boys do not disclose like girls do, which is due to not only shame but the stigmas such as people thinking "I am gay or I am weak," etc. And to be honest, some of these abusers are women who have abused underage boys, which is a crime.
Both groups agreed that we have to find safe places and ways for them to work to heal the men who were abused so they not only are protectors of the land and water but our most precious resource - OUR children - our future.
We hope to somehow assist the men with moving forward in healing and helping them to become healthier and be the protectors the Creator has created them to be. My belief is that we will not see crimes or drug use in our communities go down until ALL men who have been sexually abused start their healing journey and gain their sense of self-worth and their purpose the Creator has put them here for - to be Defenders!
