ENDING GENERATIONAL TRAUMA

Unwanted Hands by LaLa

The Hands of a Stranger

The hands of a stranger that I know

caressing the limits I didn’t ask to be pushed.

My soul leaving my body because it doesn’t want to be present to this. Mouth shut because my words mean nothing no more.

No fight left in me

No soul

No words

Just sweat

The silent tears

and the finish of a stranger I once knew.

The above piece, sent in by Lala, is an experience we hear and know about far too often for far too long. This taboo subject is often not to be talked about in family circles. And even worse, it is ignored by those we depend on for protection and refuge. When speaking out, we are told we are the cause of confusion in our families or just about bringing drama.  But those that label it as such know and realize that there is a problem but are too coward to admit it. 

Why is this? 

Why aren’t our bodies worth protecting? 

Why is it okay for access when consent is withdrawn? 

Why are we gaslighted when exclaiming the unwanted touch or attention from others? 

Why are the perpetrators worth protecting but not our bodies? 

Why are our feelings relegated as a non-factor in our family circles? 

Sexual abuse will not stop being a problem in our generational lines and familial communities until the perpetrators are called out, shamed, and held accountable. The overall message should be “This will not be tolerated - AT ALL!”  Until this happens on scale then abuse will always creep and prey in our families breaking and devouring souls sometimes before they are fully formed. 

We can stop this madness, break this generational violation and reclaim the family unit. Victims need to be believed and supported.  Thus, we need to have this conversation with our families. It is a tough conversation indeed and in some cases, you may need to have a mediator involved.

If you are the victim of abuse talk to someone you trust.  If none are available, contact one of the national hotlines for victims’ services. Talk to someone and begin reclaiming that part of your self that was violated. 

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) 800–656–HOPE (800–656–4673)

StrongHearts Native Helpline (domestic violence and dating violence support for Native Americans)  844–7NATIVE (844–762–8483)