09/01/2026
⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING / CONTENT WARNING 🛑
This content contains discussions regarding the 10th Anniversary of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Women and Girls (MMIWG).
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September 1, 2016 marks the day the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people formally began. The start of a process that gave voice to thousands of families, survivors, and knowledge keepers who had carried their truths in silence for far too long. We remember them, and honour their families, their lives, and their truths.
In June of 2019, the landmark final report was released: “Reclaiming Power and Place, The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.” Under the 231 Calls for Justice, Sections 3.1-3.7 are specifically tied to health (Calls for Justice for All Governments: Health and Wellness).
“This chapter also situates violence as a health issue. Interpersonal violence directed against First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people is one of the most significant health impacts associated with the colonial violence of residential schools, family separation and relocation, dispossessions of land, and, for First Nations, the Indian Act. Throughout the testimony, witnesses courageously offered often difficult testimony that explained the impact on their health of acts of physical violence, sexual assault, and childhood physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. In many cases, the efforts survivors take to cope with the traumatic impact of this violence (often in the absence of other culturally relevant supports) can create additional health problems. Isolation, addiction, self-harm, and su***de are all common health-related challenges that Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people confront in the aftermath of violence, or in the aftermath of violently losing a loved one. These factors all increase the risk of further violence.” (Source: Executive Summary of the Final Report p.28)
For more information, read the report on Reclaiming Power and Place: Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
https://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/9.867037/publication.html
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If you or someone you know needs support, the national MMIWG Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 1-844-413-6649
