Domestic Violence and Tribal Protection of Indigenous Women in the United States

This article reviews the issue of physical abuse of Indigenous women and begins with an examination of the sovereign nature of the tribal nations within the parameters of both international law and U.S. jurisprudence. It also addresses the way in which some international instruments relate to the rights and protection of Indigenous people, including specific provisions for protecting women. Furthermore, this article provides an overview of the American Indians' shared world view, revealing values in sharp contrast to those of the majority of American society. Finally, the article demonstrates how some tribes seek to protect their female members through codes, customary law and intervention programs which provide services to victims, abusers and their families.