BC Assembly of First Nations advocates for national action plan for missing and murdered Indigenous women

October 4th is an annual day to honour the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people in Canada.

The BC Assembly of First Nations is advocating for a national action plan for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, led by survivors and families.

While many events are being held virtually this year, Sisters in Spirit vigils, events, and red dress campaigns remain grassroots expressions of grief and solidarity, the assembly says.

“I’m incredibly passionate about healing for the families and our women, girls, and gender diverse people who have experienced violence. Creating safe spaces and access to wellness and cultural supports is how we can help people walk their path of healing find their way back to themselves,” said BCAFN Women’s Representative Louisa Housty-Jones.

“Gaining strength and direction from my culture and language has been a central part of my own experience. I am so thankful for all of the community leaders who provide these spaces and continuously remind the rest of society that we cannot rest until this national tragedy is ended.”

To support the development of the National Action Plan the AFN Women’s Council will be holding regional virtual engagement sessions throughout the fall of 2020.

Planning is underway in the BC region to ensure the approach to engagement is collaborative, strengths-based and trauma-informed.