For immediate release
September 25, 2019
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is remembering the late Norma Ellen Andrews today. Ms. Andrews is the 29th homicide victim in Winnipeg in 2019. She was a member of the Manto Sipi Cree Nation in MKO Territory.
“Norma’s life was sacred. She was a mother, daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, auntie, cousin, and friend,” stated Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “Norma is lovingly remembered for her kindness and gentleness. The death of this young Indigenous woman has impacted her family and community. Norma Andrews did not deserve to die in such a tragic way.”
“Our hearts are broken,” shared Larry Andrews, father of Norma Andrews. “This is a very difficult time for us. It is very hard to describe what I am feeling. I never imagined something like this would ever happen to us.”
“As a country we must collectively support, implement, and action the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We must implement all 231 Calls for Justice to end this ongoing national tragedy,” said Grand Chief Settee. “I call on the federal and provincial governments to take action. Our hearts are heavy from so many losses. We cannot wait for election promises. We need action now. The lives of Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit people matter.”
MKO continues to focus on the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG). We have developed a Liaison Unit for MMIWG, which has been instrumental in providing supports and connecting impacted families and survivors to additional resources in a culturally appropriate and safe manner.
