On December 9, the U.S. attorney general’s task force on violence against American Indian and Alaskan Native children held the first of four public hearings to gather information to be submitted to the attorney general and used in policy making decisions. The meeting was held in Bismark, North Dakota, and was co-chaired by former U.S. Sen. Byron Dorgan and Iroquois composer and singer Joanne Shenandoah. Testimony focused on the effects of domestic and sexual abuse as well as witnessing violence; speakers also described programs addressing these issues and helping victims heal.
Learn more about the meeting at the following websites:
Department of Justice (12/9/2013)
Bismark Tribune (12/9/2013)
Indian Country Today Media Network (12/6/2013)
The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead (12/5/2013)