The Dark Legacy of Intergenerational Sexual Trauma Among Indigenous Peoples

The recent discovery of unmarked graves at a former residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia, has once again shed light on the devastating effects of intergenerational sexual trauma on Indigenous peoples. This trauma, caused by the systemic abuse and exploitation inflicted upon Native children in residential schools, continues to have a profound impact on their lives and the lives of their descendants.

According to Dr. Shannon McDonald, acting chief medical officer for the British Columbia First Nations Health Authority, this trauma can affect individuals in many ways, including their ability to parent and cope with work. Chronic stress caused by this trauma can also increase the risk of depression, mental illness, and a range of physical health problems such as hypertension, diabetes, chronic pain, and heart disease.

One of the most insidious effects of intergenerational sexual trauma is its ability to disrupt the body's natural response to stress, leading to consistently high levels of cortisol. This can result in a range of biological changes that affect an individual's entire being, from their mood and behavior to their physical health.

Dr. Amy Bombay, an Ojibway researcher and assistant professor at Dalhousie University, has dedicated her career to understanding the effects of residential school trauma on Indigenous peoples. Her research has shown that children with a parent who endured residential school have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts as teenagers.

The experience of intergenerational sexual trauma can be particularly devastating for Indigenous women, who were often subjected to forced assimilation and cultural suppression in addition to physical and sexual abuse. This trauma can manifest in a range of ways, including substance abuse, domestic violence, and mental health issues.

North Peigan, a member of the Piikani Nation in southern Alberta, has spoken publicly about his own struggles with intergenerational trauma. He has recounted how the discovery of unmarked graves at a former residential school brought back painful memories and emotions for him and his family. 'Personally I've been really struggling and having a difficult time trying to come to terms with that,' he said.

The experience of intergenerational sexual trauma is not limited to individual stories, but also has implications for entire communities. The trauma caused by residential schools can create a cycle of despair, in which loneliness and feelings of isolation lead to new cycles of abuse and exploitation. This can result in higher rates of suicide, substance abuse, and mental health issues within Indigenous communities.

In conclusion, the legacy of intergenerational sexual trauma among Indigenous peoples is one of profound suffering and resilience. While the discovery of unmarked graves at former residential schools is a painful reminder of this trauma, it also highlights the need for continued healing and reconciliation. By acknowledging the past and working together to address its ongoing effects, we can begin to build a brighter future for all Indigenous peoples.

Intergenerational sexual trauma