we female survivors

by Salma Hamideh

In a guest column in the American Indian Newspaper, Glendora Naomi Pine chronicles her experiences at a facility assisting navajo female victims of sexual assult. She recalls mainly her interactions with three navajo women who all experienced sexual violence. She remarks how, with the traditional dressing and jewelry of the woman, they could have been her mother or her grandmother. Being a survivor herself, Pine could relate to the feelings of shame and fear that come with vocalizing and sharing stories. The first panel of my project is a reflection of the obstables hindering not only the three mentioned women, but survivors everywhere. Each word and phrase comes directly from the newspaper article; how the women were labled along with the lack of resources to come to their help. A common shared feeling is a lack of trust in the justice system brought on by the generational trauma experienced by many navajo. A long history of abuse and distrust is reflected in the three women Pine spoke with, and the grips of the horros reach even more women. Just as prevalent as the sexual violence is the response, or lack of response.

While the case of these three women is a tragedy, it is not rare. Throughout history navajo women especially have been plauged with sexual violence.

The second side of my project moves on to not only healing from, but prevention of the assaults, each aspect equally important. Again, each phrase is taken from Pine's newspaper article. But as we move through the article we also move to see a more hopeful side to the story. The women who were once silenced are now able to talk through their trauma. Their voices and the voices of women everywhere can be heard. Just as the three navajo women Pine meant were able to break their silence and begin the process of healing their mind, body, and spirit, women everywhere should heal the same. Speaking out results in treatment programs and necessary refunding of resources. Breaking the silence is essential but also, proactive measures must be taken. Community values revisited, the public educated on the experiences of women.

When we speak of three healing survivors we acknowlede all survivors.

We female survivors.

We get the help we deserve.

Female, our voices be heard.

Survivors, edudate the public.

Pine , Glendora N. “Towards Ending Sexual Abuse of Native Women .” American Indian Newspaper , 11 June 1989, pp. 6`-7.