Sons of Fathers Family Violence & Sexual Abuse Conference (Nov 17)

DEVON CUIMARA, FOUNDER AND CEO OF ABORIGINAL MALE’S HEALING CENTRE

Devon will talk about Aboriginal Male's Healing Centre Strong Spirit Strong Families Strong Culture Inc. strategy to prevent family violence.

My people are from the Nyungar Nation in the South West of Western Australia. My matrilineal kin groups are Manitjimat (white cockatoo) and Wardongmat (crow). ‘Mat’ means ‘stock, family, leg’. My people are the Yuet, Wadjuk, and Bibilman.

I’m the son of a father, who used violence. I used violence. My grandfather used violence. Most men in my family either use or used violence. Most Aboriginal men I know either use or used violence. To stop the use of violence is not as simple as turning off a light switch. To give up grog and drugs will not stop your use of violence. You need a ‘safe place’ to learn not to use violence. I found that safe place, within me. Today, I can proudly say that I abstain from the use of violence and all forms of self-medication. This is my story.