Two Eagle River School students make a statement about domestic violence

By Sam Sandoval

The week of Valentines Day was also a time to bring awareness to the dark side of love. Girls from the Two Eagle River School created and displayed 'buckskin' dresses with messages and decorations to honor Native American women and to make a statement against domestic violence.

Sponsored by the Crime Victims Advocate office at CSKT, the hanging of the dresses coincided with the Love Without Fear week that runs during Valentines Week. The dresses were made in the Healthy Relationship Group that meet weekly. Girls learn about domestic violence and cover topics about date violence, rape and self-defense. In the past, the group hung t-shirts, but opted for a more tribal statement by creating buckskin dresses.

Contact the Crime Victims Advocates at 406-675-2700, ext. 1180, 1186, or 1179. Advocates can be reached 24/7 by calling Tribal Law and Order at 406-675-4700. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.