(Lheidli T’enneh Territory, Prince George, and Heiltsuk Territory, Bella Bella, BC) – The BC Assembly of First Nations honours victims, survivors, and families on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The BCAFN continues to press all individuals, sectors, and governments in Canada to honour MMIWG2S+ by implementing the Calls for Justice.
The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls released a comprehensive final report and Calls for Justice, constituting 231 legal imperatives to end the genocide against Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+, and gender-diverse individuals.
“It’s been more than two years since the Calls for Justice were delivered to the federal government, and yet Canada still does not have a plan to see the calls implemented,” stated Regional Chief Terry Teegee. “The National Inquiry dedicated years of work to creating a pathway forward. Quite simply, the Canadian government has a duty to end the violence, seek justice, and support healing by implementing each of the Calls for Justice. This must be a top priority.”
The BCAFN calls upon the Canadian government to work with First Nations leaders, survivors, families, women, 2SLGBTQQIA+, and gender-diverse individuals to transform harmful systemic and societal values and support a future where all First Nations people are safe and well.
BCAFN Women’s Representative, Louisa Housty-Jones, stated, “I want to honour all those who are working to end and respond to gender-based violence and the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit and gender diverse people. The answers lie in Indigenous-led solutions. We know what we need to be safe and well. Now, all governments and sectors of society must support this crucial work.”
Violence against Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+, and gender-diverse people is an urgent and ongoing crisis affecting First Nations communities and families every day. Implementing the 231 Calls for Justice will transform and save lives. All individuals and sectors of society have a role to play in preventing and responding to this crisis; however, we look to the federal government to support this vital work in partnership with First Nations.