Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc.
For immediate release
June 9, 2023
MKO Expresses Condolences to the family of Melinda Lynxleg
Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Inc.
MKO is releasing the following regarding the discovery of the remains of Melinda Lynxleg in San Clara, Manitoba, confirmed by RCMP June 9, 2023.
Grand Chief Garrison Settee shares the following:
“On behalf of MKO, I express profound grief of the news shared this morning regarding the location and identification of the remains of Melinda Lynxleg. MKO has offered support to the family through the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Liaison (MMIWG) Unit to work alongside any existing supports. We offer our deepest condolences to Melinda Lynxleg’s family, who has waited for answers for more than three years,” said Settee.
The discovery comes on the heels of a CBC Report Card on where Canada stands on implementing the 231 Calls for Justice that were released by the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. This report has confirmed that the Calls for Justice are far from being implemented and Indigenous women, girls, 2-Spirit relatives, and gender-diverse people continue to be at risk of harm.
“In response to this discovery, we echo Call for Justice 1.5 and are calling upon all governments to immediately take all necessary measures to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. Melinda and her family deserve justice and answers. MKO is prepared to play our role as part of the Calls for Justice made to all governments.”
I ask all citizens of Manitoba to keep the Lynxleg family in your thoughts and prayers,” he added.
-30-
For more information:
Philip Paul Martin, Communications Officer
Phone: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]
