AMC Advocates for Justice and Support in Wake of Disturbing Trial Evidence

Treaty One Territory, Manitoba — The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is deeply disturbed by the recent revelations from the Winnipeg Police Service, which confirmed the presence of DNA from Marcedes Myran, Morgan Harris, Rebecca Contois, and an unidentified woman known as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe (Buffalo Woman), inside the home of their confessed killer, Jeremy Skibicki. The forensic findings disclosed during Skibicki’s trial also revealed DNA profiles of twelve additional women, indicating a crime of unimaginable magnitude. One of the DNA profiles was matched to Ashlee Shingoose, who has been missing since March of 2022 and is from St. Theresa Point First Nation.

This harrowing discovery not only reopens wounds for the families of the victims but deeply impacts the entire First Nations community. The prosecution’s assertion that these heinous acts were “racially motivated” underscores the systemic issues facing our people.

In these trying times, the AMC is steadfast in its support for the families of the victims. We are also fully committed to upholding the spirit and welfare of the wider community as we collectively navigate the painful emotions this trial evokes.

We understand that such news can be overwhelmingly triggering. The AMC encourages anyone struggling with intense emotions to seek support. It is vital to remember that help is available, and you are not alone in this. Whether you need to manage overwhelming feelings or prevent a crisis, please consider reaching out to the following resources:

• MMIWG2S+ 24-Hour Crisis Line: MB: 1-866-818-3505 // Canada-wide: 1-844-413-6649
• Hope for Wellness – An Indigenous 24-Hour Helpline: Call 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at hopeforwellness.ca
• Indian Residential School Survivor 24-Hour Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
• Talk 4 Healing – A Culturally Grounded Helpline for Indigenous Women: Call or text 1-855-554-4325, available in 14 languages.
• Kids Help Phone – Indigenous Volunteer Crisis Responder: Text FIRST NATIONS, INUIT, or METIS to 686868 for youth and 741741 for adults.
• Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: Available in over 200 languages. Call 1-833-900-1010 or visit canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca
• Suicide Prevention and Support Line: Call 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 (3 pm-11 pm).

The AMC has remained steadfast in its commitment since the revelation of this and other MMIWG2S+ cases, tirelessly advocating for support and justice for all affected families from Manitoba First Nations. Grand Chief Merrick has made it a priority to carefully handle such cases and foster collaborative relationships between Federal and Provincial Governments and law enforcement agencies.

The systemic challenges facing First Nations women, girls, and two-spirited individuals are causing immense harm to First Nations communities. Despite ongoing discussions about reconciliation, it is clear that significant gaps remain. To effectively address the violence targeting First Nations people, there must be a fair distribution of resources and easily accessible support services, enabling individuals to access healing and support programs without barriers.

The AMC remains resolute in its commitment to tackle these issues head-on, advocating for systemic reforms and concrete measures aimed at protecting the rights and well-being of First Nations women, girls and Two-Spirited persons.

The AMC stands in solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy. Together, we will continue to advocate for justice, healing, and the protection of our First Nations relatives.

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

NT4