We have all been hearing about numerous cases of violence against women in India. This, however, is not just a national problem. Rinelle Harper, a sixteen year old Canadian aboriginal girl was brutally attacked by two men last month. After been sexually assaulted, the victim was severely beaten up and left to die by the Assiniboine River. But she miraculously survived.
Her attackers were two boys, one being a 20 year-old and the other one, seventeen years-old. Yesterday, a month after her attack, Harper addressed the Assembly of First Nations. After introducing herself, Harper went on to say, “As a survivor, I respectfully challenge you all to call for a national inquiry into missing and murdered indigenous women.”
This has been an important issue in Canada, according to lawyer Joan Jack, a former candidate for national chief, told CBC, "There wouldn't be 1,200 missing and murdered indigenous women if we didn't have a problem in our community as well," she said. "It's a problem. It's a big problem." She added that sexism and chauvinism are highly prevalent in the aboriginal community.
After urging people to stand up for Violence against young women, Harper said,“I am thankful for the thoughts and prayers from everyone. I understand that conversations have been happening all across the country about ending violence against indigenous women and girls. But I want to continue on with my life and I am thankful I will be able to go back to school to see my friends and be with my family,” according to a report by National Post.
Facts state that aboriginal women and girls are three times more likely than non-aboriginals to be victims of violence in Canada. This incident and the bravery, with which Harper and her family have tacked the issue, have bought the problem into spotlight and will hopefully urge the government to address the issue.