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Aboriginal Women and Domestic Violence

Research shows domestic abuse is higher among Aboriginal women than non-Aboriginal women. It also shows that violence against Aboriginal women is often more severe. The Measuring Violence Against Women, Statistical Trends, 2006, report says 21 per cent of Aboriginal people reported being victims of violence from a spouse in 2004. This is three times higher than the number for non-Aboriginal people (seven per cent). Not only did Aboriginal women report higher rates of spousal violence in 2004, they were also significantly more likely that non-Aboriginal women to report the most severe and potentially life-threatening forms of violence or being sexually assaulted (54 per cent of Aboriginal women, compared to 37 per cent of non-Aboriginal women).

                                              
What resources and services are available for Aboriginal women?

Aboriginal women and their children can contact any of the domestic violence resources in Manitoba (see link below).

While all services address cultural needs, some domestic violence services in Manitoba are designed especially for Aboriginal people, including:

Ikwe Widdjiitiwin – This shelter offers a safe place women and children can go in an emergency. The shelter also provides ongoing support for those affected by domestic violence. In Winnipeg, call 204-987-2780.

Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Inc. – This shelter offers culturally sensitive counselling and advocacy services for women, men and children affected by domestic violence. In Winnipeg, call 204-925-0300.

Wahbung Abinoonjiiag – This service works with young people affected by domestic violence, using traditional Aboriginal healing methods. In Winnipeg, call 204-925-4610.

There are also several First Nations shelters that serve rural communities:

Mamawehetowin Crisis Centre, Pukatawagan, MB	1-866-432-1041 (toll free)
First Nation Healing Centre, Koostatak, MB (Fisher River Cree Nation)	1-800-692-6270 (toll free)
Jean Folster Place, (Norway House)	204-359-4400
Wechin Waskigan Crisis Centre, (Shamattawa)	204-565-2548

Without help, abusive relationships only get worse.

Help is available

Contact one of the resources (see link below) for more information and find out how to create your own protection plan. If you are in an abusive relationship, or you know someone who may be, call 1-877-977-0007.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911

Click here for information on creating a protection plan
Click here for a list of resources and supports in Manitoba