This is an invitation to celebrate, honour and support Indigenous women, girls and their families on October 4 by attending or holding a Sisters In Spirit Vigil.
The Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) began drawing attention to the issue of violence against Indigenous women in 2005. They assembled a database on 582 missing and murdered women and girls. This year will be the 13th annual Sisters In Spirit Vigils across the country.
‘’Each year, family members, Indigenous community members, and supports gather on October 4th at Parliament Hill and across the country. We gather to honour our sisters and their families who have been impacted by violence.’’
A vigil can take many forms, from a moment of silence, to a rally, to a community feast. All that is important is that you take some time on or around October 4 to mark the day.
In response to numerous calls for action from organizations such as NWAC and the Canadian Feminist Alliance for International Action (FAFIA), the Government of Canada launched an entirely independent National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) in September 2016.
PSAC also demands justice for Indigenous women and girls. “This government must ensure that the Inquiry leads to justice and healing for all affected by this ongoing tragedy,” said Magali Picard, PSAC National Executive Vice-President. “Indigenous women and girls, and their families, deserve answers. They deserve justice.’’
“Indigenous women are loved and valued. However, statistics on murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls show that they are in danger. How can we, as a society, keep them safe? Two questions from and Indigenous woman who spoke at a supportive gathering several years ago still resonate: “Will you hear me? Will you believe me?’’ declares UNE National Equity Representative for Aboriginal Peoples Ruby Langan.