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SAFESTAR

Sexual Assault Forensic Examinations, Support, Training, Access, and Resources. A unique model of care that draws upon the strength and resilience of Indigenous women to put an end to sexual violence, while also providing compassionate and holistic care for women and teen victims.

Welcome to SAFESTAR

SAFESTAR is a unique model of care that draws upon the strength and resilience of Indigenous women to put an end to sexual violence, while also providing compassionate and holistic care for women and teen victims. Specially selected and qualified Native women learn the skills necessary to:

  • Deliver emergency first aid to sexual assault survivors

  • Provide referrals for follow-up care (medical or other)

  • Educate communities on the harm caused by sexual violence, as well as leading the way to healthy and respectful ways of living

  • Collect sexual assault forensic evidence (“rape kits”) to promote accountability for the perpetrators
Learn More

WHAT IS A SAFESTAR?

A SAFESTAR is a specially selected woman who has successfully completed the intensive 40-hour SAFESTAR training course. She is trained and qualified to provide emergency first aid, health care referrals, ongoing support, and forensic examinations to sexual assault victims. SAFESTARs also take a stand against sexual violence in their communities and support all victims of sexual violence.

Training Program

Project Support

This project was supported by grant number TA-2011-AK-K045 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, The United States Department of Justice. Points of view expressed in this document are those of the author, and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Office on Violence Against Women or The United States Department of Justice.

Locate a SAFESTAR

Look for this symbol (on vehicles, homes, and posters) in your local community where SAFESTARs have been trained.

Communities with SAFESTARS

  • Tohono O’odham Nation
  • Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation
  • Kaw Nation
  • Wind River
  • Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head Aquinnah
  • St. Paul Aleutian Pribilof Island