Historical trauma is defined by Maria Yellow Horse Brave Heart PhD as “cumulative emotional and psychological wounding across generations, including the lifespan, which emanates from massive group trauma.” Join us for a conversation exploring the intersection of historical trauma, violence, and healing as it affects domestic and sexual violence prevention.
Presented by:
Tawna Sanchez, Director of Family Services at NAYA Family Center
Tawna was honored in 2006 as a Buffett Award finalist for her steadfast commitment to help Native women and children lead lives free of violence and abuse. She has also worked on peace and social justice issues on an international level. Sanchez is currently the Director of Family Services at the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA Family Center) coordinating services in domestic violence, rape prevention education, foster care services for youth and their families, and services to Native American elders. Sanchez also serves in the Oregon State Legislature as the Representative for HD 43 in North and Northeast Portland. Ms. Sanchez has also earned a Master’s of Social Work from Portland State University.
Vanessa Timmons, OCADSV Executive Director
Vanessa Timmons has been a writer, activist, and women’s health advocate for over 25 years. She attended Marylhurst University’s Multidisciplinary Studies Program in Portland, Oregon, and has continued her formal education through certificates and training, including the Interpersonal Neurobiology of Trauma Certification Program at Portland State University. Vanessa has served as the Director of Programs at Raphael House of Portland, a Northwest regional field organizer for the National Organization for Women, and the domestic violence program coordinator for the Multnomah County Domestic Violence Coordination Office, in addition to serving OCADSV in the past as the Women of Color Coordinator and Board Chair.