Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is tragically all too common in Alaska, and in some way, it affects every Alaskan either directly or indirectly. Domestic violence happens in communities throughout Alaska, and although it is difficult to measure, it occurs at a rate that is likely the highest per capita in the United States. Stopping the violence and healing the damage it causes is a tremendous challenge that requires approaches from many angles. Alaska tribal courts may use court ordered protection as one tool in this challenge. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) passed by Congress in 1994 requires that states and tribes recognize and honor each other’s protective orders. Being required to recognize and honor each other’s orders is referred to as giving ‘full faith and credit.’ Samples of tribal protective orders and many other resources for stopping the violence are provided on this website.