Tara Kearsey
Northern News Services

Sanikiluaq (Sep 30/02) - More than 25 years after the nightmare began, victims of sexual predator Ed Horne are still haunted by memories of horrific abuse.

Inuk spiritual healer Angaangaq visited Sanikiluaq Sept. 14-19 to host a healing circle for victims trying to forget their tragic past.

Two years ago Horne was sentenced to five years in prison after he pleaded guilty to 20 of 72 sex charges he faced for alleged crimes between 1975 and 1983. Preceding the conviction, the former elementary school teacher and prinicpal had already served a six-year sentence in connection with the sex crimes.

Angaangaq helped the group of men to face their pain and anger and allow themselves to shed a few tears.

"We re-created that circle, which has no beginning, no ending and in which we all belong," said the spiritual healer.

The journey began with a sunrise ceremony, then the group of 20 victims began to discuss the effects of the horrors inflicted on them as young boys. Each had the opportunity to share as much or as little as they desired, but most importantly, they listened to each other.

"I told everyone that when someone is crying, we let that person cry, allow that person to finish their cry and then we can always comfort him, embrace him and let him know that he is loved and supported and respected," said Angaangaq.

The healing circle involved three days discussions about their experiences and the after-effects of abuse suffered at the hands of a man they should have been able to trust.

"What has happened to these men is incredibly horrendous and it has had an effect on them, an effect deep inside the lives of these people," he said.

"For the first time in a long while, they had a chance to look with eyes of faith into the future."

The youngest victims of Ed Horne are now in their late 20s. Most have married and are raising their own children.