Written by:  AI Chat. Imaged retrieved from SOFIAS facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=486203973731087&set=pcb.486205313730953

     LGBTQ+ and Sexual Assault Awareness Month held in April every year,  brings crucial attention to the unique challenges faced by these communities, including the intersections of identity, discrimination, and vulnerability to sexual violence. For the Fa'afafine community in American Samoa, navigating both cultural traditions and modern realities can present complex dynamics. Fa'afafine individuals, who are recognized as a third gender in Samoan culture, often face discrimination and marginalization, which can increase their vulnerability to sexual assault. In the context of American Samoa, where traditional cultural values intersect with Western influences, Fa'afafine individuals may experience heightened risks of sexual violence due to stigma, prejudice, and a lack of understanding or acceptance within society. Sexual assault in this community can take various forms, ranging from intimate partner violence to assaults fueled by transphobia or homophobia. Additionally, factors such as limited access to resources, support services, and legal protections can further compound the challenges faced by Fa'afafine survivors of sexual violence.

     Healing for victims of sexual assault, including Fa'afafine individuals, requires a holistic approach that addresses their physical, emotional, and cultural needs. In Samoa, traditional healing practices rooted in the Fa'a Samoa (Samoan way of life) play a significant role in the recovery process. Fa'afafine survivors may seek support from their families, community elders, and spiritual leaders, engaging in ceremonies, rituals, and discussions aimed at restoring balance and well-being. These healing practices often emphasize communal support, cultural identity affirmation, and the importance of reconnecting with one's sense of self and place within the community. Additionally, accessing professional support services such as counseling, advocacy, and medical care is essential for survivors' healing journeys. By combining traditional and contemporary approaches to healing, survivors of sexual assault in the Fa'afafine community can reclaim agency, resilience, and empowerment as they navigate their paths toward healing and justice.
References:

• Fa'afafine: Gender Identity in Samoa - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2910304/
• Sexual Assault in American Samoa: Challenges and Opportunities for Action - https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/244697.pdf
• Healing From Sexual Trauma: A Samoan Perspective - https://pacificwomen.org/healing-sexual-trauma-samoan-perspective/

In American Samoa and Samoa, Fa'afafine refers to individuals who identify as a third gender. Fa'afafine are widely accepted within Samoan culture and are recognized as a distinct gender category. They are assigned male at birth but typically display behaviors and characteristics traditionally associated with females. Fa'afafine often take on roles within the family and community that are typically associated with women, such as caregiving, household duties, and sometimes ceremonial roles.

The role of Fa'afafine within the family can vary depending on the specific dynamics and needs of each family, but they often play important roles in supporting family members, particularly in caregiving for elders and children. Their contributions to the family are generally valued and respected within Samoan society.
Sexual assault can unfortunately occur within any community, including among Fa'afafine individuals. Sexual assault against Fa'afafine can take various forms, including rape, molestation, harassment, or any form of unwanted sexual contact. Due to the stigma and discrimination that Fa'afafine individuals may face, they may be at increased risk of sexual violence.

Community support is crucial in addressing sexual assault against Fa'afafine individuals. Here are some ways communities can help:

1. Education and Awareness: Increasing awareness about sexual assault and its impact on Fa'afafine individuals is essential. Education programs should be inclusive and culturally sensitive, addressing the unique challenges faced by Fa'afafine. Please continue to follow the Alliance as we work within the community developing a Resource Center for SOFIAS members. 
2. Support Services: Communities should ensure that there are accessible support services available for Fa'afafine survivors of sexual assault, including counseling, medical care, and legal assistance. Through Office of Violence against Women Rural Program funding, the Alliance will be helping to create a curriculum for Fa'afafine's to become advocates.  They will help to navigate other Fa'afafine's who may be subjected to domestic violence, and or sexual assault, to safe spaces for healing. 
3. Empowerment and Advocacy: Empowering Fa'afafine individuals to speak out against sexual assault and advocating for their rights within the community can help combat stigma and discrimination.
4. Community Involvement: Engaging community leaders, organizations, and individuals in efforts to prevent sexual violence and support survivors can foster a supportive environment for Fa'afafine individuals.

It's important to note that addressing sexual assault requires a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, healthcare providers, and law enforcement.  We ask the community to learn more, and be part of the change to help create safer spaces for our vulnerable communities. 
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References:

1. Sutter, O. (2014). Fa’afafine: The boys raised to be girls. CNN. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/2014/12/04/world/faafafine-samoa-third-gender/index.html
2. Mata'afa, T. (2016). Fa'afafine: Samoan boys brought up as girls. BBC News. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34924869