Alaska is known for many things: the biggest state, the most extreme weather, the tallest mountain in North America, the most diverse neighborhood, the beautiful Alaska Native cultures indigenous to the land. Unfortunately Alaska is also known for some of the highest rates of domestic violence (DV) and sexual violence (SV) in the nation. The rate of rape in Alaska is three times the national average. This is even more pronounced for American Indian and Alaska Native women; four in five have experienced violence in their lifetime. Often referred to as an “epidemic,” violence in our state is prevalent and persistent but also preventable.

Violence affects us all. Beyond the actual incidents of violence, there are longer term, potentially damaging effects that often go unrecognized. Experiencing or being exposed to domestic and sexual violence can lead to a range of effects including developmental delays, child abuse, substance abuse, self-harm and psychological problems, lower productivity at work, poor physical health, and increased health care costs.

For over a decade, the Pathways for Prevention Statewide Leadership Team has worked to coordinate strategic approaches to primary prevention in Alaska. Made up of twenty different individuals and organizations, this group uses the best available research and community practices to plan, implement and evaluate violence prevention efforts across the state. In this document you will find a description of our prevention approach, challenges and strengths in violence prevention and our statewide plan to address domestic and sexual violence in the state.