Sex taboo must end

Page 10

For generations, Native cultures have considered sexuality a "taboo" subject. But as the number of Natives testing positive for HIV, the precursor to AIDS, is rising at an alarming rate, it's one subject that clearly can no longer be ignored.

"These things must be discussed because the threat of HIV and AIDS is quite prevalent in Native society," said Marlene Poitras during her Woman's Sexuality in the 90s workshop at the Healing Awareness Conference.

As proof, Poitras said just three years ago, only two Native people tested positive for HIV in Edmonton. Today that number has risen to 20. The infection rate is higher still for Natives in the Northwest Territories, with northern Ontario communities having an infection rate five times that of the rest of the country.

To quash the worrisome trend, Natives must come to terms with their own sexuality, then educate their children and their communities. This will not be an easy task, she said.

"But we have to be comfortable discussing homosexuality, lesbianism, as well as our sexuality."

Sexuality was once a healthy component of the Native culture. "Our ancestors used to teach about sexuality through story-telling," she told the female audience. "Before the European influence, Natives thought sexuality was part of our 'being', it was part of us. We have to get back to our culture, and teach the children about it so they are comfortable with their own sexuality."

Poitras believes teen pregnancy is symptomatic of disrupted sexuality. Rising teen pregnancy rates underscore the importance of reviving ceremonies associated with the first menstruation.

"Childbearing is happening at puberty because no one taught these youngsters about menstruation and the responsibilities that come with being a woman."

Sexual abuse is yet another form of unhealthy sexuality and one that can leave the victim confused about their own sexuality. Poitras, herself a victim of sexual abuse, told others victims to not let this discourage their self-exploration.

Poitras urged the crowd to maintain values and love themselves enough to practise safe sex.