MMIWG: Thank you from the Commissioners

June 28, 2019

The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was mandated by the Government of Canada and all provinces and territories to investigate all forms of violence against First Nations, Metis and Inuit women and girls, and commenced in September 2016. The first truly national inquiry was the result of a culmination of decades of tireless determination from families, survivors and grassroots community groups seeking justice and healing from violence and the loss of their loved ones.

We thank each of you for guiding this work, and sharing your wisdom, expertise and truths with us – we have heard and felt your grief and loss. This was a sacred responsibility which we will continue to carry with us throughout our lives. We honour your ongoing strength and resiliency in advocating for justice.

Together, we have exposed hard truths about the devastating impacts of colonization, racism and sexism, and the systemic causes of violence across our country that continue to plague First Nations, Inuit and Métis women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people. Together, we have found the truth, honoured the truth, and are now giving life to the truth. Our Final Report, entitled Reclaiming Power and Place, details more than 200 Calls for Justice that can begin to end the violence.

The issues and realities heard by this National Inquiry are deeply complex. Yet, what is absolutely clear is that our women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people are sacred. You have ensured their spirits and their voices will be honoured.

Once again, we honour the memory of all missing and murdered Inuit, Metis, and First Nations women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people. You were taken, but you are not forgotten; your lives, dreams, hopes and losses are now forever a part of us, and a part of the true history of Canada.

Kinana’skomitinnow-ow
Marion Buller Chief
Commissioner

Tshinashkumitnau
Michèle Audette
Commissioner

Chi-meegwetch
Brian Eyolfson
Commissioner

Nakurmiik
Qajaq Robinson
Commissioner

NT5