MKO Supports and Stands with Indigenous Women, Girls, Two Spirit, and Gender-Diverse People in Manitoba who Experience Gender-Based Violence

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For immediate release
October 25, 2021

Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Inc. is issuing this statement in response to ongoing violence against women and girls.

MKO is home to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Liaison Unit (MMIWG), which was established in 2017 to support families and communities impacted by the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, survivors of gender-based violence, and Two Spirit and gender-diverse people.

“I want to commend Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit, and gender-diverse people who continue to come forward to report their experiences with the RCMP and other police services. It is disheartening to hear ongoing reports of violence and assault against women and girls. It is essential we stand with victims to ensure they feel supported as they go through the difficult process of sharing their truths,” said Grand Chief Garrison Settee.

“Discussing abuse and violence against Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit, and gender-diverse people is not easy but it’s something we must confront head on in order for healing to happen and for justice to take place,” shared Hilda Anderson-Pyrz, Director of MKO’s MMIWG Liaison Unit. “I stand with the victims who are coming forward to make their reports about the violence they have experienced. For anyone who has or is experiencing gender-based violence in our communities, I want to assure you that our MMIWG Liaison Unit is here to support you. If you are in need of support, please reach out to us at 1.204.307.5919 or send us an email at [email protected].”

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For more information:
Melanie Ferris, Communications Officer
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak
Phone: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]