The issue of family violence is a modern scourge on Canadian society. Recent estimates indicate that during the previous five years in Canada, 7% of women and 6% of men encountered spousal violence (Statistics Canada, 2005). Furthermore, Aboriginal communities in Canada experience disproportionately high rates of family violence, due to a myriad of reasons. While the impact of colonization continues to affect the lives of Aboriginal people, what is less well known are the more recent social and emotional effects of excessive resource development, particularly in isolated communities. Through an examination of the perspectives of community workers regarding family violence in their community, located in northern Canada and displaced by hydroelectric development, a range of ideas were explored. Critical race theory provides a backdrop for understanding the endemic nature of the systemic racism that characterizes the relationship between Aboriginal peoples and the government. The study demonstrates that the social and emotional impact of excessive resource development continues to resonate in a negative manner, even many years following displacement.
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