Unmasking Stigma

This is especially true for Indigenous men who are more likely to be victims of assault yet face more barriers in seeking help and discussing their experiences.

Sexual trauma is a painful part of history for many Indigenous communities where one in six report being survivors of childhood sexual abuse. These communities often lack the resources to address male sexual trauma in a safe and informed way or to provide preventative support to individuals at risk of causing harm. 

That’s why 15 communities and 62 organizations in British Columbia came together to provide training resources to help professionals care for male victims of sexual abuse. The Talking for Change project is now expanding to introduce the Cost of Silence initiative, a video-based resource package designed to address the sexual abuse of minors and support healing for survivors. These videos will feature the stories of ten survivors and explore emerging treatment strategies that help individuals seek support before causing harm. The package will also include supplemental materials from the Talking for Change program and training opportunities developed by the B.C. Society of Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse. Together, these resources will provide tools for professionals and communities to support survivors, raise awareness, and promote healing and prevention.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is providing funding to distribute 489 packages to Indigenous organizations and libraries across Canada. Two of these packages are going to churches and five will be available for request by any Indigenous non-profit not covered under the typical guidelines. The IRF’s support will help with training to ensure this collection is handled with the care and respect it deserves in honour of those sharing their experiences.

We are grateful for the full support of the Archdiocese of Vancouver and generosity of the Archdiocese of Toronto.

Archdiocese of Toronto