Currently, there is significant statewide effort to reduce violence against women. This is being addressed at the state level with the submission of bills concerning assault and sex offenses. Although these bills do not specifically target American Indian/ Alaska Native victims, Alaska Native women account for more than half of all sexual assault victims within the state.

Regional data also reveals that over 50% of women have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence, or both in their lifetime. These efforts are supported by local data, as well. The main focus is to address violence against Native Alaskan women issues within Yakutat, specifically targeting Assault and Domestic Violence.

The Domestic Violence Advocate will spearhead the Yakutat Tlingit Tribe Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Project, which aims to remedy the current local situation by enhancing the Tribe’s ability to respond to violent crimes against Indian women, promote victim safety, and develop education and prevention strategies.

The goal of this project is to increase tribal capacity and empower our own community with resources and tools that will allow us to understand and address violence against Alaska Native women. The Tribe believes it is vitally important that these issues are addressed at the tribal level with special regard to traditional and cultural views.