AMC marks Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Awareness Day

October 4, 2021

Treaty One Territory, Manitoba

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Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is marking Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Awareness Day by remembering and honouring all MMIWG2S+ peoples who have been lost to this genocide in Manitoba and across the country. The First Nations leadership in this province stands with all the families of MMIWG2S+ peoples in their time of suffering and grieving. 

Grand Chief Arlen Dumas stated, “As we mark Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Awareness Day, we remember and honour all our stolen sisters and those who remain missing as a result of the national tragedy which is fueled by racism and genocide. They are loved as our Mothers, sisters, grandmothers, and aunties. We all stand with the grieving families as they attempt to find a measure of justice and closure for their loved ones who have been lost to this national injustice perpetrated against First Nations women and girls and MMIWG2S+ peoples.”  

“Today, I was pleased to attend the unveiling of a beautiful mural commissioned by the town of Selkirk to commemorate this day,” continued Grand Chief Dumas, “and I recognize and acknowledge the government of Manitoba for providing funding that will go to supporting events that will permanently commemorate MMIWG Awareness Day, while supporting First Nations advocacy organizations so that they can continue their important work for the families, victims and survivors. “ 

“However much more needs to be done for governments to act on the 231 Calls to Justice of the National Inquiry, so that all First Nations girls in this country are better protected, have the chance to access employment and education, and have opportunities to grow into the leaders of the future. The AMC is calling on Canada and Manitoba to immediately end this national tragedy by committing to support a First Nations women-led process in Manitoba for ensuring the Calls to Justice are fully implemented in this province, beginning with the most important ones on decolonization of laws and institutions, reducing poverty and enhancing educational access and opportunities for First Nations women and girls.” 

“The historical and ongoing violence inflicted on First Nations women and girls in this province is the result of racism and genocide – and also the result of government and police inaction. It is unacceptable and must stop. An end to the racism and violence inflicted on First Nations women and girls must be demanded by all Manitobans. Finally, First Nations are demanding renewed police efforts for cold cases and for bringing all perpetrators associated with cold cases to justice,” concluded Grand Chief Arlen Dumas.  

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