Source: (2005) In Wanda D. McCaslin, ed., Justice as Healing: Indigenous Ways. Writings on Community Peacemaking and Restorative Justice from the Native Law Centre. St. Paul, MN: Living Justice Press. Pp. 25-28.
“Unresolved trauma continues to affect individuals, families, and communities. Intergenerational or multigenerational trauma happens when the effects of trauma are not resolved in one generation, allowing patterns of abuse to continue. The patterns of abuse that are passed from one generation to the next include not only physical and sexual abuse but also low self-esteem, anger, depression, violence, addictions, unhealthy relationships, fear, shame, compulsiveness, lack of good parenting skills, body pain, and panic attacks.
“Breaking the cycle of abuse that began in residential schools is essential if Aboriginal communities are to be healthy, loving places in which children can be raised with love. Stopping abuse and helping families learn how they can support their own well-being is the dream of many Aboriginal people, and it is what the mission statement of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation is all about.” (excerpt)
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