The Report of the Third National Indigenous-Federal-Provincial-Territorial Meeting on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People January 29 to 30, 2025

Data Initiatives to inform issues related to MMIWG2S+

The first presenter was Gayatri Jayaraman, Director General of the Justice, Diversity and Population Statistics Branch, Statistics Canada. Gayatri Jayaraman began by speaking about the Missing Persons Data Standards (MPDS) Project, a response to Call for Justice 9.5v which aims to create a standardized national strategy with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) for reporting cases of MMIWG2S+. The project involves establishing data standards, training police, and recommending a national database for research and statistical use. The initiative has progressed through several phases, including consultative engagements, a literature review, and consultations with academics and people with lived experience. A final engagement report summarizing these efforts is expected to be released in the fall of 2025.

Next, the work underway on the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey (UCR) was reviewed. The UCR is being enhanced to collect data on racialized individuals, enabling better reporting on Indigenous and ethnocultural groups. This effort involves collaboration with the CACP and Statistics Canada. The project is currently in Phase 3, which is focused on expanding engagement to include perspectives from people with lived experiences. Phase 4 will focus on the Crime Severity Index (CSI), which aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of crime severity. Gayatri Jayaraman emphasized that Statistics Canada heard from Indigenous communities that this index risked stigmatizing them. To mitigate this, outreach was done to develop a range of different programs to contextualize data, including communication products, media and reporting mechanisms.

National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains

The next presentation was led by Acting Officer in Charge, Sgt. Lana Prosper and Community Liaison Sgt. Amy Doan who spoke about the National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains. The National Centre supports investigations into unknown remains and operates the public website "Canada's Missing," which has been shared with Indigenous partners across Canada to gather their input.

Officials are working to improve collaboration between communities and law enforcement, as it is essential to ensure accurate data recording. They noted that sometimes investigators fail to ask if individuals are from marginalized or Indigenous communities. Moving forward, the aim is to address this oversight by encouraging investigators to ask these important questions. Consistency in data entry is crucial, and both communities and investigators need to communicate effectively to achieve this. Canada's Missing is a national and public facing website that provides an opportunity for people to submit tips on missing persons cases.

The National Centre also manages the National Missing Person DNA Program (NMPDP), which has successfully identified over 100 individuals since its inception in 2018. The presenters emphasized the strict legislative requirements around DNA (for example DNA is not shared with any criminal database). They are conducting community engagement to build trust and improve data collection. The National Centre also has a Community Liaison and Outreach Coordinator, who liaises with the community, oversees community outreach, conducts reviews on historical and active missing persons, and identifies ways that law enforcement can advance justice-seeking initiatives.

Indigenous-Led MMIWG2S+ Data

The third presentation was by Dr. Shelagh Roxburgh, Manager of Violence and Abuse Prevention, Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada. Shelagh Roxburgh stated that 6 years after the National Inquiry, homicide rates against Indigenous women have increased, and police inaction continues to breed mistrust and abuse. From the abolition of Indigenous slavery in 1834 to the operation of residential schools in Canada, the systemic impacts of colonialism are evident. She noted that the colonialist discourse often frames Indigenous peoples as being more vulnerable, but it is settler colonialism itself that causes their vulnerability. Ending the ongoing violence requires stopping colonialism and being honest about colonial history.

Shelagh highlighted that the Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC) Sisters in Spirit project was the first national effort to compile a database on MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ people, but there remains a lack of data for Métis, Inuit, and gender-diverse experiences. Data showed that cases between 2016 to 2019 continued at the same rate as before the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Shelagh emphasized that the true number of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people is unknown, and that this violence is ongoing. She found it concerning that such initiatives are often put in the past, overlooking the continued crisis of violence against MMIWG2S+ people. There is a need to understand diverse pathways to becoming a missing and murdered person. The Government of Canada has focused on commemoration, but the number of MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ people is still not accurate and current, placing MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the past, similar to colonialism. Inuit have a unique settler colonialism experience, and in the era of neoliberal ideology, data is key. Every dollar must be correlated to a person, as each piece of data represents a life, a story, and the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples. This data is not just numbers; it reflects the ongoing impacts of MMIWG2S+ and the urgent need for comprehensive and inclusive data collection.

She also emphasized that not enough funding has been made available to meet the demand, and resources need to be placed in the hands of Indigenous peoples for data sovereignty. Shelagh expressed the commitment to continue working in solidarity with Indigenous partners and allies to hold the Government of Canada accountable to fully implement all 231 Calls for Justice and making the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) a reality.

Plenary discussion

After the 3 presentations, there was a plenary discussion where participants were invited to share their thoughts and ask questions. During the discussion, speakers emphasized the importance of including families and survivors in the data collection process, addressing homelessness, and ensuring compassionate police policies. Participants raised concerns about the inclusivity of data collection, particularly in overlooked regions like Northern Ontario. The need for reliable funding that supports the diverse needs of all Indigenous communities, including those in urban, rural and remote areas, and resources to address data gaps and solve cold cases was also highlighted. The need to emphasize the leadership roles of 2SLGBTQI+ people and the importance of recognizing gender diversity in data collection was discussed as well as the importance of involving Indigenous peoples in the collection, dissemination and communication around data generally.

Current on-the-Ground Efforts

Following a break for lunch, the meeting proceeded with 3 simultaneous breakout sessions that focused on current on-the-ground-efforts. Each session consisted of 1 or 2 presentations and a discussion session after each presentation.

Breakout Discussion: Update and Discussion on Family Information Liaison Units

Breakout Discussion: Work of local and regional communities and governments

This session focused on the ongoing efforts of local communities, governments, and law enforcement in addressing the issues faced by Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. There were 2 presentations; the first one was by the Honourable Nahanni Fontaine, Minister of Families (Manitoba) and Cora Morgan, Special Advisor on Indigenous Women's Issues (Manitoba). The second presentation was by Dawn McDonald and Marie Sack from the Nova Scotia Native Women's Association's Resilience Centre.

Breakout Discussion: 2SLGBTQI+ Experiences and Initiatives

The session focused on the experiences and initiatives related to 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, highlighting efforts to build safe and inclusive spaces for healing and addressing the specific needs of gender-diverse communities. The discussion featured presentations from Libby Szarka and Carla Jamison from Poundmaker's Lodge Treatment Centre and John R. Sylliboy from the Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance.

Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

This agenda item consisted of 2 presentations. The first presentation was from Talal Dakalbab, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister of the Crime Prevention Branch, Public Safety Canada. The second presentation was led by Jami Lee, Gaodwiyanoh (They Take Care of Their Own) Child and Youth and Anti-Human Trafficking Supervisor, Ganohkwasra Family Assault Support Services.

National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking

Talal Dakalbab, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Public Safety Canada, provided an update on federal efforts to address human trafficking, and the renewal of the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking. Launched in 2019, with an initial investment of $57.2 million over five years and $10.3 million ongoing, the National Strategy remains flexible and aims to align with Indigenous perspectives. It is closely linked to other strategies, such as the MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA+ National Action Plan and the National Action Plan to Combat Gender-Based Violence. The key pillars of the National Strategy are empowerment, prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnerships.

The renewal of the National Strategy offers an opportunity to improve and expand efforts, with a focus on addressing all forms of human trafficking, including forced labour, working closer with groups that are disproportionately impacted, and exploring the use of new technologies to support anti-human trafficking efforts. Ongoing dialogue is essential, as sex trafficking in particular remains a significant issue for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals.

Through discussions with Public Safety, Indigenous groups have emphasized the need for meaningful engagement, sustainable funding, and culturally safe supports.

Indigenous-Led Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

Presenters from the Ganohkwasra Family Assault Support Services spoke about the Deyogwadawenye: Anti-Human Trafficking Program that operates at Six Nations of the Grand River. One of the areas of focus is education, including community outreach and 3 youth conferences. They spoke about the work they do to raise awareness about human trafficking, including highlighting the different forms human trafficking can take in the community (couch surfing, substance abuse, transportation, and babysitting). The Deyogwadawenye Center provides bi-weekly educational group programming, counseling, and therapeutic supports, such as skills, art/play therapy, and emotional freedom technique. They also advocate for mental health assessments, housing, restraining orders, bail hearings, and referrals to support services. Deyogwadawenye networks with multiple agencies and organizations including policing, victim services, and schools to name a few.

They also offer emergency lodging for those experiencing human trafficking. They highlighted that shelters may not work for those experiencing human trafficking, but there are needs for a transitional space.

Plenary discussion

The discussion highlighted several key issues and recommendations for combating human trafficking. Participants emphasized the need for more public awareness, specialized services such as sexual assault forensic nurses, and increased funding for Indigenous-led organizations. They stressed the importance of grassroots efforts, community involvement, and culturally safe supports for Indigenous women and girls. Concerns were raised about the normalization of human trafficking, the need for prevention measures in rural communities, and the importance of co-developing strategies with Indigenous communities. Overall, the discussion underscored the critical need for comprehensive, sustainable, and culturally appropriate approaches to effectively address human trafficking.

Day 1 ended with a closing conducted by Elder Sylvia Maracle and Elder David Serkoak.

Updates on the Red Dress Alert Pilot Project in Manitoba

The Red Dress Alert Pilot Project in Manitoba, led by Giganawenimaanaanig, aims to address the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people. Giganawenimaanaanig is a long-standing organization that succeeded Manitoba's MMIWG2S+ Implementation Committee. It has a large, diverse membership, including family members, survivors, urban Indigenous/Indigenous organizations, the Winnipeg Indigenous Friendship Centre, the Southern Chiefs Organization, and Manitoba Moon Voices, to name a few.

The pilot project has involved extensive community engagement, including 2 provincial gatherings and 5 engagement sessions in Winnipeg. Engagement efforts have included mapping exercises to show locations where women went missing and discussions on safe community approaches.

The collaboration between government and communities has been fast-moving, with representation from all voices to guide implementation. Ceremonial protocols are observed, and family members have taken on sacred roles as Red Dress bundle carriers. The project emphasizes immediate action and respectful commitment to the ongoing work.

Key considerations for the project include federal, provincial, and territorial legislation, a community-driven and survivor-led approach, adequate resources, and wraparound supports. Safe transportation and appropriate evaluation mechanisms were also identified as priorities.

The project is divided into the following phases:

1. Phase 1: Implementation planning and co-development (final report by March 2025).
2. Phase 2: Implementation of the Red Dress Alert system (2025-26).
3. Phase 3: Evaluation of the Red Dress Alert system (2027), including a community survey.

The project team expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work on this important initiative, driven by the strength of ancestors and loved ones, and challenged non-Indigenous communities to provide support and motivation.

Plenary discussion

Comments and questions from participants emphasized the importance of the Red Dress Alert. Participants spoke about the need for a community-led approach to implementing a Red Dress Alert, funding, appropriate infrastructure to access an Alert, Indigenous-led solutions, and inclusion of 2SLGBTQI+ people in policy development surrounding the Alert and its implementation.

One participant emphasized the need for app-based alert systems to evolve for broader accessibility and integration with provincial emergency systems, and another called for a coordinated safety strategy involving community and service providers. The need for holistic, wraparound supports for individuals who are located was emphasized, ensuring not only immediate safety, but also sustained support for healing and long-term wellbeing, delivered with dignity, compassion, and grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Project KARE (RCMP task force in Alberta), which focuses on the delivery of communication on missing persons, and an Indigenous-led missing persons database (Aboriginal Alert) were both highlighted with a reminder to build on existing local initiatives. Infrastructure concerns were also raised, with gaps in the North and connectivity issues along the Highway of Tears noted as key examples.

What We Learned: Building Partnerships and Next Steps

The key themes from the leadership discussion are outlined below.

Red Dress Alert

Hilda Anderson-Pyrz emphasized that federal and provincial legislation must support the Red Dress Alert, which should remain community-driven by families and survivors, with adequate time, resources, and supports for those who do not wish to be found for their own safety and wellbeing. The Red Dress Alert will vary across different regions, spotlighting the need for full cross-country connectivity and addressing infrastructural issues.

Minister Anandasangaree spoke about the Red Dress Alert Pilot, noting that efforts toward its advancement will continue, with partnerships being sought with other provinces, including Nova Scotia.

The Honourable Leah Martin, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Minister Responsible for the L'nu Affairs, Status of Women, Communications (Nova Scotia) expressed that Nova Scotia supports the Nova Scotia Native Women's Association (NSNWA) submission to the federal government for a Red Dress Alert Pilot. The provincial government has earmarked funds for the Red Dress Alert pilot if federal funding is secured. The province is committed to supporting NSNWA in the possible pilot of the Red Dress Alert and related initiatives, demonstrating a strong commitment by the provincial government to these efforts.

Chief Connie Big Eagle, Chair of the Assembly of First Nations' Women's Council, noted that the Red Dress Alert system should account for cultural aspects and safety concerns when collecting data.

Ian Lafrenière, Member of the National Assembly, Minister Responsible for Relations with the First Nations and the Inuit for Québec, expressed his interest in best practices, and results of the Red Dress Alert Pilot to share best practices.

Collaboration

Minister Lafrenière shared the example of Québec's newly adopted Health Bill on Cultural Safety which requires Health establishments to collaborate with First Nations and Inuit organizations to develop measures such as mandatory training.

Deputy Minister Sierra VanDerMeer, Women and Gender Equity (Yukon), emphasized the need for greater collaboration, communication, and engagement between governments, grassroots organizations, families, and the entire ecosystem, highlighting that everyone must work together for success. The challenge of aligning resources to allow everyone to participate was recognized, raising questions about how to create inclusive tables for everyone to share and work together. Ongoing regional and national communication is crucial, with the IFPT meeting being a useful tool but not sufficient on its own. The need to build inclusive systems that work and uplift people on the ground was highlighted, noting that missing even one component of these systems can hinder progress.

Hilda Anderson-Pyrz also noted how important it will be for collaboration and shared responsibility throughout the implementation of the Red Dress Alert. Potential partnerships, such as the one being discussed with Nova Scotia, are aligning with the long-term objective of fostering nation-wide efforts to roll out the initiative.

The Native Women's Association of the Northwest Territories highlighted that they are impressed by Manitoba's community work and information sharing on the Red Dress Alert, in the spirit of collaboration. They also advocated for a national working group to connect organizations across Canada.

Natan Obed, President, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), spoke about the collaboration with Pauktuutit on developing the National Inuit Action Plan on MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people (National Inuit Action Plan), which includes 187 actions under 14 themes. The action plan addresses various issues such as housing, education, Inuktut, and health and wellness care. He noted that there have been successes over the last four years since the National Inuit Action Plan was released, such as investments for Inuktut and housing, development towards the Inuit Nunangat University, and ITK's relationship with the RCMP. However, President Obed also noted that there are areas that need further action, including healthcare.

The Manitoba Métis Federation spoke about their Bring Me Home Program, which is a joint effort with various Indigenous organizations to encourage information sharing and collaborative efforts to make progress on missing persons and unsolved crimes. A $10,000 reward for information leading to arrests and convictions was announced, with an acknowledgment of government-to-government work between MMF and the Government of Canada.

Indigenous-Led Engagement

Headperson Tyler George spoke about how each community is unique and has different needs, emphasizing the importance of community-led and -driven projects, particularly in rural communities requiring more support and access.

Yukon Deputy Minister VanDerMeer also emphasized the importance of collaborative engagement to face cross-jurisdictional challenges, noting that solutions should be Indigenous-led and grounded deeply in culture, with all levels of government playing roles in funding, policy development, and legislative changes.

The Honourable Minister Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, discussed the importance of Indigenous-led work and collaboration.

Inclusion of Men and Boys

A family member highlighted the struggles faced by Indigenous men, including addictions and homelessness, and stressed the need for resource centers and holistic support. They emphasized that men's lives matter and that supporting them is crucial for the protection of women. The family member called for holistic approaches to help both men and women heal, emphasizing the importance of lifting each other up and working together. Minister Leah Martin (Nova Scotia) also recognized men and boys' needs for assistance.

Human Trafficking

A representative from the Infinity Women Secretariat, whose work focuses on human trafficking and gender-based violence, emphasized the need for cross-border relationships with the United States to address the trafficking of Indigenous women.

A representative from the Union of BC Indian Chiefs highlighted that only eight out of 100 ships entering the Port of Vancouver are inspected, emphasizing the need for more inspections. They advocated for the involvement of Indigenous representatives in inspections to address this gap, suggesting that Indigenous peoples could be trained to support these inspections, similar to environmental inspections.

Minister Anandasangaree noted that Dr. Jennifer Richardson would be appointed as the Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking. Dr. Richardson will be working with the Minister of Public Safety.

Inclusion of Women in Efforts to Combat Gender-Based Violence

Assembly of First Nations' Nova Scotia Regional Staff, Annie Bernard Daisley, emphasized the crucial role of women, noting that they step up in hard times, protect the front lines, and seek peaceful solutions to the challenges faced in their communities. Women hold significant power within their communities, playing a vital role in leadership and advocacy.

Spiritual Advisor Dumont underscored Canada's duty to protect Indigenous women and girls.

A representative from the New Brunswick Advisory Council on Violence Against Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People noted that Indigenous women in New Brunswick face high rates of violence, but that women also play a crucial role through their leadership by addressing these issues with powerful words and peaceful solutions.

Victoria Pruden, President of the Métis National Council (MNC), honoured and uplifted the work of grassroots and regional organizations addressing MMIWG2S+, noting the importance of including women, families, and survivors to make the forum meaningful and accountable. Given the high prevalence of intimate partner violence faced by Métis women, there is an urgent need for government action to prioritize and resource Métis governments and a need for more prevention and awareness resources. The MNC also underscored the value of continued allyship against global threats and the dehumanization of gender-diverse and Indigenous peoples, raising the need for systemic change and increased action to address these issues.

Holistic Approaches and Wrap Around Community Services

Leah Gazan, Member of Parliament (MP) for Winnipeg Center, spoke of the need for support both before and after someone is found. MP Gazan highlighted the necessity of providing basic needs such as income and shelter to ensure people can live in dignity and escape violence. She advocated for a guaranteed livable income to prevent poverty and ensure safe, dignified homes, holistic approaches, and affordable housing.

Assembly of First Nations' PEI Regional Chief, Wendell LaBobe, stressed the need for family support services, promoting an expansion of services for families to gain access to information required to navigate the justice system. It is essential that these services go beyond policy commitments, and are implemented as tangible actions that make visible changes.

The Honourable Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for Housing, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women (Northwest Territories) noted that an MMIWG Advisory Committee is being established in the Northwest Territories, and that they also manage the Family Information Liaison Unit program which supports MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Sandy Kownak, Associate Deputy Minister of the Department of Family Services (Nunavut) shared that Nunavut is actively implementing 18 actions including several sub-actions under the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, guided by Inuit principles and supported by various organizations and governments. She noted that programming is available for all genders and ages, and highlighted the need for a Gender-Based Violence coordinator. Efforts are also being made to address the 46 Inuit-specific calls for justice, with support from the federal government, organizations, and communities.

The Honourable Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, spoke about federal efforts to address homelessness among the most vulnerable. He emphasized the need for specific streams for Indigenous communities, and sustainable, long-term funding for Indigenous housing. He mentioned a $560 million investment in the Canada Community-Building Fund, an initiative focused on addressing homelessness, with specific streams for Indigenous communities. He also noted the National Housing Strategy's $40 billion investment dedicated to reducing the housing need for vulnerable Canadians, including Indigenous communities experiencing housing insecurity.

Minister Lafrenière noted the importance of health legislation in Québec, highlighting the inclusion of an Indigenous training component and a focus on culturally safe healthcare and mandatory partnerships with Indigenous peoples.

Odelle Pike, President of the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women's Network raised the issue of systemic racism within policing and law enforcement, and victims' lack of access to trauma-informed supports and culturally relevant solutions.

Focus on 2SLGBTQI+ People

Prestin Thotin-Awasis from the 2 Spirits in Motion Society highlighted the contradictory actions of provincial governments passing anti-trans and anti-Two-Spirit legislation while expressing support for MMIWG2S+ initiatives, as all missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people require support.

Prestin explained that Two-Spirit people traditionally held vital roles in advocating for the vulnerable, but today, much of that energy is spent defending their own existence. Despite the efforts of nations and organizations to uplift Two-Spirit voices, harmful provincial policies continue to undermine this progress. A true "whole of government" approach must be accountable and inclusive, addressing the real impacts of legislation on communities impacted by violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality Canada, noted the ongoing work toward gender equality and the rise in hate against the 2SLGBTQI+ community, with a commitment from the government to defend their rights. She highlighted the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence as a key tool, with the first annual report published in December 2024 showing 471 Indigenous-led projects. Over 100 organizations are receiving support for gender-based violence prevention programs, with efforts guided by the voices of survivors, families, and communities. She noted that collaboration with grassroots organizations was essential.

Elder Maracle stressed the importance of using the full acronym 2SLGBTQI+ to ensure inclusivity, and recommended taking time to spell out the acronym, Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and additional people who identify as part of sexual and gender diverse communities, and have conversations about identity to make everyone feel respected and welcome.

Data sovereignty

Prince Edward Island Regional Chief Wendell LaBobe, emphasized the importance of Indigenous data sovereignty and collection for effective policies, which must be trauma-informed and community-driven, ensuring Indigenous people have access to and control over their data. Consistent, long-term funding is needed for data collection and family support services, with expanded services to help families navigate the justice system. Indigenous women and Two-Spirit individuals in rural and remote areas face deep-rooted vulnerabilities, making safe housing and transportation critical to addressing human trafficking, including sex trafficking.

Two-Spirit advocates, Headperson Tyler George and Prestin Thotin-Awasis, spoke to the importance of ensuring that data collection from law enforcement includes identifiers for gender diverse people. In Canada, when someone dies or is found deceased, official records only capture "male" or "female" as gender identifiers. This exclusionary approach erases the existence of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and prevents the accurate documentation of violence against them. To truly track violence against gender diverse people, it is crucial that data collection mechanisms respect their right to visibility and dignity.

Alicia Buckley from the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) also spoke about data, noting that Indigenous data sovereignty is crucial for real societal change, with data collection needing to be community-driven and culturally safe.

Chief Connie Big Eagle, Chair of the Assembly of First Nation's Women's Council focused on accounting for cultural aspects and safety concerns when collecting data.

Urban considerations

Alicia Buckley (NAFC) highlighted the challenges faced due to the distinction-based approach because of the complexities of urban Indigenous communities, noting that urban Indigenous people are often not welcomed at national tables, making it difficult for their voices to be heard. The need to support survivors and frontline staff was emphasized, advocating for the normalization of reporting crimes in a culturally safe manner. Friendship Centres play a crucial role in providing support and resources, offering safe spaces even when communities are not safe. Given that Friendship Centres receive limited funding support from provincial and territorial governments, the urban Indigenous perspective must be included in allocating funding, collecting data, and sharing truths and realities to inspire positive action and benefit communities. With their large base and vast resources, Friendship Centres serve multiple roles, including coordinators, researchers, and event planners. There is a call for systemic change and consistent funding, emphasizing the importance of protecting future generations and ensuring the lived experiences of Indigenous people are at the center of action.

In a written statement to the MMIWG Secretariat, the Urban Indigenous Action Group on MMIWG2S+ emphasized the urgent need for sustainable, long-term core funding for urban Indigenous organizations to ensure organizational stability, equitable pay, and the retention of frontline staff. Current funding restrictions and fiscal year requirements impede access to resources, causing delays that affect program delivery. Project-based funding creates competition and hinders collaboration, leaving communities without support when funding ends. They underscored the importance of substantial investments from all levels of government into Indigenous organizations, which are needed to address the MMIWG2S+ crisis effectively.

A representative from the City of Toronto's Indigenous Affairs Office highlighted an alarming lack of support for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals in urban areas, with investments falling short of addressing critical issues.

Moving forward

A representative from the Native Women's Association of the Northwest Territories proposed creating a working group on MMIWG2S+ to address systemic issues. In the Northwest Territories, they are developing a toolkit for families of missing or murdered individuals. They advocated for a national working group to connect organizations, emphasizing the need for funding and collaboration.

A representative from the Yukon Aboriginal Women's Society urged the government to focus on prevention by continuing to implement the Calls for Justice. They also shared testimonies of personal connections to multiple MMIWG2S+ cases. The urgency of improving government prevention efforts was stressed.

Minister Fontaine emphasized that when Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals thrive, the entire community benefits. She acknowledged the organizers, hosts, and participants. Through Manitoba's Mino'Ayaawag Ikwewag "All Women Doing Well" strategy, $80 million over four years will be dedicated to empowering and safeguarding Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people, with funding going directly to MMIWG 2S+ families. Minister Fontaine reiterated that Indigenous women deserve more than the bare minimum and urged everyone to protect the progress that has been made.

Minister Martin noted that Nova Scotia will host a traditional healing ceremony in March 2025 for families of MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Nova Scotia's collaborative efforts involve supporting this healing gathering, implementing new communication strategies to foster communities of care, and encouraging reconciliation among all Nova Scotians. She also expressed a commitment to working with Mi'kmaq people on various priorities such as traditional healing ceremonies and language revitalization, and the aim to support Indigenous voices.

Recommendations were made by a representative from the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women's Network for an independent body to monitor the Calls for Justice, along with the need for anti-racism and culturally competent training for law enforcement moving forward.

Lorna Brown, founder of the Tears to Hope Society, recounted how her niece went missing from Prince Rupert / Highway of Tears, highlighting the importance of addressing these tragedies. Grassroots organizations, families and survivors must be consulted and have a place at the tables that guide the implementation of the 231 Calls for Justice. She raised the need for the fiscal accountability of funds, given that FILU programs are underfunded, and support is also necessary for addictions and mental health issues. It is critical to establish a permanent centre for proactive prevention, along with the importance of each province having MMIWG2S+ family gatherings for updates on the Calls for Justice. Reclaiming Power and Place must include families' voices, emphasizing that "Nothing about us without us"

In a written statement submitted to the MMIWG Secretariat, the Ontario Indigenous Women's Advisory Council noted that the Government of Canada's policies, plans, and strategies should prioritize Indigenous women's safety and meaningfully include them in the development of legislative, policy, program, and service responses. Increased and sustainable investments are needed for community-based, culturally grounded programs to increase safety and promote healing. Their recommendations include having core, sustainable funding for Indigenous women's organizations, transparency and accountability on project investments, and the inclusion of Indigenous women's organizations in the federal government's Nation-to-Nation/Distinctions-Based framework.