October 4th is the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People: MMIWG2S. This day is intended to raise awareness to the violence that Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals face. This is a day to remember the lives lost, support the families who seek justice, and to demand action to end gender-based violence in Indigenous communities.
The significance of this day extends beyond remembrance; it is a call for justice. Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals experience violence at rates that are significantly statistically higher than non-Indigenous people. The ongoing impacts of residential schools forced assimilation, and discriminatory policies have created conditions where Indigenous people are more vulnerable to violence, trafficking, and exploitation, as well as addictions, mental health struggles, and increased rates of suicide. Tragedies are far too common, and we must fight for justice. We need to advocate for people who are unsafe, and we need to fix the root problems that create these conditions. Each time a life is lost to a tragedy, the whole community suffers. Just recently, Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick lost Leona Newkinga Simon, a talented artist, beloved soul, and advocate for Indigenous-led mental health services and facilities. We extend our sympathies to her Nation, and we must lean together to offer protection and strength to prevent tragedies such as this that stem from systemic issues left unsolved.
There was a National Inquiry into MMIWG2S, which saw its final report released in 2019. This report issued 231 Calls for Justice aimed at addressing the root causes of violence, including calls for improved policing, justice reform, and the implementation of culturally relevant support services. Lack of adequate response from law enforcement and government systems exacerbate the problems that threaten those that are vulnerable, and many cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls remain unsolved or poorly investigated, leaving families without closure. We must add our voices to those who aim to apply pressure for change. On October 4th, communities across the country hold vigils, ceremonies, and marches. As well as honouring and remembering, these events help spread the awareness that is needed to bring about action.
The fight for justice is ongoing. Our province has responded by forming the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee, and successfully implemented their proposal for The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council. The work of this collective of Indigenous women from all over Newfoundland and Labrador is a response to the Calls to Action. Along with the Assembly of First Nations Women’s Council, whose mandate ensures that women’s perspectives inform the work of the AFN, we see that steps are being taken in the right direction. We still have a great deal of work to do, but by listening to the voices of Indigenous survivors, families, and communities, we can seek solutions that are rooted in respect, healing, and empowerment.
We must protect each other and provide a safe path forward for our youth. Together we can ensure there are no more stolen sisters.
Relevant Links:
GoFundMe “In Love of Leona NewKinga Simon”: https://www.gofundme.com/f/leonanewkinga-simon
Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council to be Established to Support Efforts Related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People: Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council to be Established to Support Efforts Related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People – News Releases (gov.nl.ca)
Government of Canada, Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1590523702000/1590523850562