THUNDER BAY – Nishnawbe Aski Nation leadership say they stand firmly behind families calling for immediate action in the aftermath of the unveiling of the federal Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls National Action Plan.
Additionally, the NAN Women’s Council has singled out six priority areas in the plan they’d like to see addressed as soon as possible.
The council would like to see equitable opportunity for Indigenous women in the grievance and decision-making process and more opportunities for Indigenous women and girls, as well as 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in the creation of programs and service design by senior levels of government. They would like equitable funding to specific NAN communities for safety and violence prevention initiatives and enhancements of existing programming and services to increase accessible and equal funding to allow them to take part in policy design and strategies in Ontario.
The council is seeking funding for NAN First Nations, tribal councils and regional organizations to shape violence prevention and increase awareness, and finally, want immediate healing supports for families and communities.
“Let us all remember the countless we can’t forget, those who are missing and gone - our grandmothers, daughters, sisters, and cousins who are so loved. Let us continue to cherish them in spirit and in our hearts,” said NAN Deputy Grand Chief Walter Naveau, in a release issued on Thursday.
“Although many tears have been shed, that has not brought closure for those in prayer today longing for their loved ones. Let us find that solace as a Nation that binds us together as we walk the good Red Road honouring all Anishinaabe quay. We remain committed to our responsibility to advocate for justice, and we expect immediate action from the Government of Canada to move this work forward.”
The action plan comes two years after the results of the national inquiry into Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls, with a promise to end systemic racism and violence toward Indigenous women and girls and the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.
Developed through partnerships with the provinces and territories, stakeholders and the National Families and Survivors Circle and promises both immediate and long-term action.
"Change must begin now to ensure the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people from a distinction-based perspective and a whole-of-society approach.” said Melanie Omeniho, president of Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak and chair of the Métis Nation Working Group.
Short-term priorities include public education and awareness campaigns to challenge the acceptance and normalization of violence faced by Indigenous people, as well as trauma-informed training for those who work with Indigenous people, broken down into topics such as history, culture, anti-racism and anti-sexism, anti-homophobia and anti-transphobia.
The plan also says families and survivors must remain at the forefront of the process and have continuous and accessible community-led programs and support for children of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and family members. A national emergency number, the creation of shelters, transition housing and affordable, sustainable housing is also needed. The report also calls for a guaranteed annual livable income and wants governments to recognize the right of Indigenous self-determination and jurisdiction over child welfare.
The plan seeks a transformative shift in policies and systems across Canada, including the justice system.
“We come from a matriarchal society; this must be recognized. We need to be included in decisions that address violence against us,” said NAN Women’s Council member Bertha Sutherland, of Moose Cree First Nation. “Let us all support the prevention of violence against Indigenous Women and Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People.”
Ottawa has pledged $2.2 billion to support National Action Plan initiatives. NAN leaders would like more details on how the money will be distributed.
