Helping male victims of sexual abuse through the healing process

Childhood sexual abuse is a touchy subject at the best of times, but it is an important topic to address in order for the healing process to begin. Today Chris Bentley, Attorney General and Minister of Aboriginal Affairs was in the Nipissing riding to announce that the province is helping address this issue in the Anishinabek community by providing funds for the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program.

Under the direction of the Union of Ontario Indians the victims support grant program is specifically designed to Aboriginal culture and will help the male victims of childhood sexual abuse access counseling to help them through the healing process.

Bentley says sexual abuse can scar a victim for rest of their lives so opening up and avenue for victims to talk is imperative. Understanding that what works for some people doesn't work for other and that is why the new program is appropriately tailored and delivered for the Anishinabek community providing them with an improved healing process.

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith echoed Minister Bentley noting that in the Anishinabek community it is difficult for the male population to address the topic making access to services that are appropriate to their needs that much more important.

Deputy Grand Council Chief Glen Hare says getting men to talk about abuse, particularly sexual abuse, is difficult and at times explosive. He says the funding is a great first step to addressing a topic that has sat in the dark far too long.

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The minister says two million dollars has been awarded to 19 Aboriginal organizations for 20 local projects that support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, hate crimes and historic abuse in remote areas of the province. The Union of Ontario Indians share of funds is $95,000.