MKO Acknowledges Families, Survivors, and Two-Spirited and Gender-Diverse People Who Shared Their Truths to Create a Pathway for Change

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For immediate release
June 3, 2020

Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB –Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Inc. is issuing this statement acknowledging that one year ago today, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) presented its final report.

“The truths shared by families and survivors will not be forgotten, your truths are sacred and we will honour them. Your lives are sacred. You have the right to live and the right to feel safe. As a leader I will do my part to help end this pandemic of violence,” said Grand Chief Garrison Settee.

MKO is hosting an event at 5:00 p.m. at The Forks in Winnipeg by the MMIWG Monument to honour families and survivors who shared their truths during the Inquiry process. MKO acknowledges the strength and courage of families and survivors in creating a pathway for change.

“Calls for Justice are legal imperatives—they are not optional. The Calls for Justice arise from international and domestic human and Indigenous rights laws, including the Charter, the Constitution, and the honour of the Crown,” stated Grand Chief Settee. “The template for a national action plan is in the Calls for Justice. What we’re asking for now is a clear and transparent timeline and process, led by Indigenous people.”

“We remember our sisters we have lost to homicide, we remember our sisters who are still missing, and we acknowledge and pray for our sisters who are still experiencing violence,” shared Hilda Anderson-Pyrz, manage of the MMIWG Liaison Unit at MKO. “We must act collectively to end this pandemic of violence towards Indigenous women and girls and Two Spirited and gender-diverse people.”

MKO continues to be on the front lines supporting impacted families, survivors, and communities through the MMIWG Liaison Unit. If you are experiencing distress please call the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Support Line immediate assistance is available 24/7 at 1-844-413-6649.

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For more information:
Melanie Ferris, Communications Officer
Phone: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://mkonation.com/