The Report of the Second National Indigenous-Federal-Provincial-Territorial Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People February 7 to 8, 2024 (2025)

Presentation on the Red Dress Alert regional engagement sessions

Sandra Delaronde, Project Lead of Giganawenimaanaanig, Manitoba’s MMIWG Implementation Committee, and Hilda Anderson-Pyrz provided a presentation on what was heard during the Red Dress Alert regional engagement sessions.

Throughout December 2023 and January 2024, Ms. DeLaronde and Ms. Anderson-Pyrz led 16 regional and distinctions-based pre-engagement sessions on the Red Dress Alert. MP Leah Gazan (NDP, Winnipeg Centre) and MP Pam Damoff (Liberal, Oakville North-Burlington) were also involved in these regional engagement sessions. Their participation demonstrated the non-partisan nature of these efforts and the need to continue working together for the safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Ms. DeLaronde and Ms. Anderson-Pyrz stated that 4 re-occurring themes were heard during the pre-engagement sessions:

1. Defining the purpose of a Red Dress Alert
2. The mechanisms for developing it
3. Barriers to success
4. Cultural support to those involved

In terms of the purpose of the alert, pre-engagement participants indicated that the alert should contribute to a decrease in violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people by:

1. enhancing safety in communities
2. responding to incidences of violence against MMIWG2S+ people
3. raising public awareness of MMIWG2S+ people

Participants had also emphasized that the development of an alerting system must be community-led, and that further continued community consultation is needed. Concerns were raised about the strained relationship and lack of trust between Indigenous communities and law enforcement. Entrenched biases and prejudices against Indigenous people in law enforcement and the public were presented as barriers to be addressed for the effective implementation of a Red Dress Alert. Pre-engagement participants equally flagged that while a Red Dress Alert could raise awareness of the crisis of violence, there is a risk it could exacerbate existing racism and sexism, or even allow predators to target vulnerable Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

There is a need to coordinate the alert to function across provincial and territorial borders and Indigenous distinctions, as well as a need to ensure it can operate in northern and remote areas within existing technological and infrastructure limitations, which will require leadership from federal and provincial/territorial governments, Indigenous communities and law enforcement. Participants recognized that an alert should include connections to wrap around support services both for family members of a missing person as well as for missing people who are found. This would include things like access to shelters and mental health supports.

An alert must ensure the safety of those individuals fleeing dangerous domestic violence and other situations: an alert must include safeguards to ensure that a perpetrator of abuse cannot abuse the system to find someone.

Finally, the name of the alert was also explored. There was acknowledgement that inclusivity is important, and the title "Red Dress Alert" is not inclusive of all groups though it is a symbol with significance to MMIWG. Participants suggested to explore an alternative name for the alert that used language and symbols that include all groups, such as 2SLGBTQI+ people.

After the presentation by Ms. Anderson-Pyrz and Ms. DeLaronde, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, spoke about the complexity of the work at hand, including the challenges and opportunities that exist. The Minister noted the need for governments to question and reflect upon their priorities and assumptions, highlighting that governments must put people who are most vulnerable at the center of their discussions.

Participants raised questions on funding at both federal, provincial and territorial levels, in addition to coordination across jurisdictions, and cultural safety/awareness training as part of implementation. They also shared their experiences and views on the need for improved cultural awareness and education on Indigenous issues for law enforcement. Many participants communicated communities’ distrust and discomfort with law enforcement based off past experiences where cases were dismissed due to the victims’ Indigenous identity. Overall, participants were supportive of a Red Dress Alert and there was significant interest in further discussions and consultations.

Summary of breakout room discussions on a Red Dress Alert

After lunch, the facilitators led 3 in-person breakout discussions, and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada Senior Officials facilitated 3 virtual sessions, to allow for more in-depth discussions in smaller settings. Key questions guided the discussions, which focused on the type and scope of alert, as well as necessary considerations for the implementation of an alerting system. This was followed by a plenary session where facilitators provided summaries of the breakout sessions. There were several comments that were commonly raised, as follows:

• Given concerns about backlash and prejudice, there needs to be a public education campaign to accompany a Red Dress Alert, framed in a way that does not increase stigma or discrimination against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples.
• The name of the alerting system must be inclusive and reflective of its intended purpose.
• There are a variety of technological considerations to be considered, including access to cellular service or broadband services, cellular dead zones, and the capacity of regions’ technological infrastructure.
• There was interest in the implementation of a national public alerting system with regional considerations, which would incorporate local police and border control, where necessary.
• Some participants questioned whether existing alerting systems could be leveraged as a platform for a Red Dress Alert.
• A number of participants indicated interest in the implementation of a provincial/territorial pilot as a first step.
• Resources and support services need to be available and offered to those who may not wish to be found.
• Wrap-around services for families of missing persons are required; currently many are left alone and unsupported.
• The relationship between law enforcement and Indigenous communities was discussed; building trust and strengthening relationships is required.
• Many new resources will be required, including adequate funding of various services and trauma-informed training that is grounded in Indigenous perspectives to effectively implement the alerting system. Prevention training was identified to address systemic racism, and cultural training programs for federal and other law enforcement agents.
• The short-term goal of the alerting system is to find the missing person. In the long term, the objective should be to address gaps and programs that do not meet the needs of communities (e.g., detrimental impacts of housing, lead to vulnerable situation that made the person go missing).

Minister Harjit Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness, was in attendance for the plenary discussion. He indicated that Public Safety is looking at how to implement a national public alerting system, and offered the commitment and support of Public Safety officials as the Red Dress Alert work advances. Public Safety is exploring technology to hopefully cover systemic issues and resolve concerns.

Indigenous participants provided additional comments on the need for regional considerations, including the role of community leadership in the implementation of an alerting system. Further, their concerns about the role of law enforcement, due to experiences where law enforcement minimized or denied claims Indigenous communities had brought to their attention. This highlights the need to establish clear criteria to issue the alert. Other participants spoke on their experience in creating an alert system within their community and the positive community reception of the alert. The need to hear and amplify the voices of Indigenous children was raised; there were also questions regarding how Indigenous minors can be protected and provided adequate services and care.

Minister Anandasangaree committed to taking what he heard during the discussion back to the federal government and Cabinet. He described what he has heard from family members, including the National Family and Survivors Circle, and the challenges they experience. The Minister acknowledged the need for wrap-around support programs and services. There is a need for public education, as both Indigenous and non-Indigenous members of the public have a role to play in the implementation and enaction of an alert system. The Minister affirmed that solutions must be grounded in community and that advancing the alert was critical.

Key points from the presentation

At the January 2023 roundtable meeting, Jennifer Rattray Moore was appointed as the Ministerial Special Representative to provide advice and recommendations, through engagement with survivors, families, partners, organizations, and governments, in support of Call for Justice 1.7. During the 2024 meeting, she provided a summary of her final report on the creation of an Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson. During the engagement period, Ms. Moore Rattray met with more than 600 people from more than 125 organizations and governments. Key insights from these discussions demonstrated critical gaps, including the fact that there is currently no place to make a complaint about federal services, as there is no overarching federal ombudsperson. In the creation of an ombuds, the accountability mechanism must prioritize the safety of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, keep families at the heart of the process, and provide public education and awareness.

Ms. Moore Rattray provided an overview of her recommendations. Four National Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudspersons are recommended: 1 First Nations, 1 Inuit, 1 Métis, and 1 urban Indigenous, as well as 13 regional ombudspersons. These ombudspersons should be independent, enshrined in legislation, and adequately funded. Indigenous peoples expect that they will select the Indigenous ombudspersons. The ombudspersons would focus on responding to and attempting to resolve complaints about federal programs and services and addressing rights violations. Matters that the Ombudspersons are not able to resolve should be referred to a tribunal. The report also provides an ambitious timeline for implementation. Ms. Moore Rattray concluded that there is a national crisis of gaps and inequities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada, and that establishing an ombuds office is an opportunity to address this.

Summary of question and answer period

Following the presentation, participants had the opportunity to provide comments and pose questions to the Minister’s Special Representative.

A participant asked Ms. Rattray Moore what action would be required when the ombuds gathered the information on the complaint. Ms. Rattray Moore responded that the ombuds would be required to resolve complaints in a timely manner, including outreach to the appropriate federal department or related federal entity. If the investigation reveals that the process to resolve the issue is complicated, the ombuds would work with the department or related federal entity to identify proposed changes. There would be an annual report, but special report delivered to Parliament and the United Nations, and special reports could be issued for topics that require additional attention.

One participant commented that the Calls for Justice must be looked at holistically, and that the ombuds must reflect Indigenous worldviews, not a colonial perspective. This should also be considered in the development of the tribunal. It was also shared through participant comments that safe spaces are required for Indigenous people to continually be involved to ensure Indigenous Peoples’ culture, values, and beliefs are reflected. The issue of access was also raised; Indigenous people must be able to access the services anywhere in Canada, regardless of distinction. The significant role of Two-Spirit and gender-diverse community members in the development and implementation of the ombuds offices was also identified. The time, resources, and funds required to move forward with the ombuds office was also noted and discussed. To conclude the discussion, Minister Gary Anandasangaree noted that the report sets a scene on where we are right now, and the hard work that lies ahead. The Minister committed to sharing the report with federal Cabinet Ministers and commented that the government has a responsibility to advance this work.

Provincial/territorial presentations

Minister Rick Wilson from Alberta; Minister Mike Farnworth from British Columbia, and Deputy Minister Sierra Van der Meer from Yukon provided presentations on their governments’ work on implementing, and monitoring progress of, actions that address the Calls for Justice.

Alberta

The Honourable Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations, highlighted his commitment to addressing MMIWG2S+. Minister Wilson explained how the Alberta government established the Premier’s Council on MMIWG2S+ to provide advice and recommendations on specific actions. Minister Wilson provided a comprehensive overview of the "Alberta Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Roadmap" and noted a link between this work and the Community Support Fund. The purpose of the Community Support Fund is to improve the well-being of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people by supporting Indigenous-led initiatives that address violence and increase safety and economic security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

In terms of accountability, the Premier’s Council on MMIWG2S+ reports on government actions to address violence and increase safety and economic security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, through an annual report, which is tabled in the Legislative Assembly. The Ministry of Indigenous Relations also reports on activities through its own annual report. Alberta’s government engages Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ people through the Premier’s Council, and the First Nations and Métis Women’s Councils on Economic Security to ensure the work being done is appropriate and addresses Indigenous people and communities’ needs.

British Columbia

The Honourable Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General provided an overview of the steps British Columbia is taking towards the implementation of the Calls for Justice. Minister Farnworth explained that the BC Government’s strategy was informed through extensive engagement and community dialogues with survivors, families and advocates. On June 3, 2021, the Government of British Columbia released its initial strategy, "A Path Forward : Priorities and Early Strategies", which contains key commitments that align community-based priorities with strategies that address some of the provincially relevant Calls for Justice. The Path Forward focuses on 4 core principles: people centered, health centered, reciprocal, and community driven.

A status update report is released every year on June 3. The Minister noted that, at this time, all 28 mandate commitments are well underway, with 6 completed. A key priority for British Columbia is to empower increased capacity for First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Two-Spirit and gender diverse organizations and communities to create and implement their own culturally safe solutions to combat violence. The Path Forward Community Fund was created in 2022 and provides anti-violence grants to support community safety and capacity building. These grants are administered by the British Columbia Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres and to date, 51 projects have been supported with total investment of $10.84 million.

Yukon

Sierra Van der Meer, Deputy Minister for the Women’s Equity Directorate, provided the Yukon’s presentation. The Yukon Advisory Committee was established in 2015 and continues to play a strong role in the development and implementation of Yukon’s strategy to addressing the Calls for Justice. It was noted that MMIWG is included in the mandate letters of all Ministers.

The Yukon’s 15-year implementation plan was released in May 2023. As part of the implementation plan, accountability forums are held for governments, partners, and organizations to share what they are working on. The most recent accountability forum was held in October 2023. These fora are used to address key items in the implementation plan. The first annual report of the implementation plan was released in October 2023. A technical forum is being planned for Spring of 2024 to bring everyone implementing MMIWG related activities together.

Work is also underway on an Independent Oversight Office; there is currently a 1 to 5 year timeline, with the possibility of evolving the Yukon Advisory Committee. Next steps include tracking mechanisms and alignment with federal reporting structure.

Inclusion and collaboration

Participants invited to the roundtable represented a broad variety of federal, provincial and territorial governments, as well as national, regional, and Indigenous governments and grassroots organizations. Governments and organizations with a pre-established collaborative relationship with the Government of Canada in addressing the Calls for Justice were invited (i.e., National Indigenous Organizations, Indigenous women’s affiliate organizations). In addition, provincial and territorial governments identified 2 Indigenous organizations to participate in-person and up to 5 to participate virtually.

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples expressed disappointment that they were not invited to attend in person as they have been involved in MMIWG2S+ discussions since 2016. They went on further to state that discussions about women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people should not be a political item.

Several participants, including the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs, Ontario Native Women’s Association, Giganawenimaanaanig and Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, commented that all Indigenous women should be represented at the roundtable. In their comments on the need for inclusivity, Giganawenimaanaanig noted that violence is perpetrated against Indigenous women regardless of Indigenous status. Further, they shared how they, and other Indigenous service providers, provide support to Indigenous individuals regardless of distinction.

The Assembly of First Nations 2SLGBTQI+ Council emphasized the need to focus on and discuss prevention in addressing the MMIWG2S+ crisis, and that leaders must bring people together, including Two-Spirit leaders and organizations, in these discussions.

Hilda Anderson-Pyrz, Tri-Chair of the roundtable meeting, and Chair of the National Family and Survivors Circle also emphasized the need to work together collaboratively, and that Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ as individual rights holders must be remembered and centered in these discussions. Minister Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth of Canada, concurred that Indigenous Women, youth and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples need to be centered in the work and that listening to communities and grassroot organizations is essential.

A number of Indigenous participants noted the need for governments to listen to Indigenous voices. The Ontario Native Women’s Association raised concern that current nation-to-nation processes exclude Indigenous women and other peoples. Indigenous women have a right to be represented by organizations of their choosing and to address their specific needs. Les Femmes Autochtones du Québec indicated that it is crucial for us to continue what we began while ensuring participation of Indigenous women in Québec, which is essential for implementation. The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations noted that Ministers have not recognized the role of Elders and the need to learn from them to address this crisis.

Other organizations flagged interest in a deeper level of engagement from governments. Saturviit communicated that they felt left out of processes, including the engagement on the Red Dress Alert, but look forward to continuing these conversations. The Native Women’s Association of Canada noted that they have been excluded from national tables in the past, and as an organization has a lot to bring and contribute to the discussions.

Minister Arif Virani, Justice Canada, recognized that progress has been slow, and confirmed that the goal is to work at a faster pace. He noted the need to foster collaboration with survivors and families, advance implementation, demonstrate accountability, collaborate more closely with Indigenous partners to ensure that voices are heard, and continue prioritizing key issues together. The Minister expressed concern that programs and initiatives are not living up to their promises, with funds not consistently reaching communities to support their needs.

Deputy Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, Valerie Gideon, explained how federal program funding in health and wellbeing has increased in the past few years. Multi-lateral discussions have been held to inform bilateral funding agreements with provinces and territories in terms of health funding.

When Indigenous Services Canada was created, one of the first items completed was the establishment of an Indigenous Women’s Well-Being Advisory Committee. This resulted in federal investments in Indigenous midwifery for the first time.

Other participants noted the need to work together collaboratively. The National Family and Survivors Circle sought commitment from all partners to decrease violence. Priorities must be worked on collaboratively, through a decolonized approach to ending the violence. In addition, the Native Women’s Association of Canada inquired as to how governments and Indigenous organizations can work together collaboratively in a way that ensures representation of Indigenous people from all provinces and territories.

Housing

Minister Nahanni Fontaine, Minister responsible for Families, Government of Manitoba, raised the issue of inequitable funding for shelters on reserve. She went on to describe the lack of access to shelters in the North, which forces women to come to urban areas which puts them at risk for further violence.

Ganohkwasra Family Assault Support Services provided first-hand experience as frontline workers, describing the inequity of funding between on reserve and urban shelters. There are also differences in the way that new shelters are funded compared to how existing shelters and other infrastructure are maintained. The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs commented that all communities need shelters to house and support people with mental health problems.

Minister Bernadette Smith, Minister responsible for Housing and Mental Health, Government of Manitoba, acknowledged the great work that many participants are doing in regard to housing. She also recognized the need for safe housing, and the extremely low vacancy rate across Canada. The Minister also acknowledged that although shelters are important, safe, proper housing for women is required.

Deputy Minister Valerie Gideon provided participants with an update on the program and policy work that Indigenous Services Canada has been advancing since the release of the National Inquiry’s final report. She described efforts to increase funding for existing shelters and build new shelters and a partnership with the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The Deputy Minister acknowledged the construction delays for new shelters and has taken feedback from partners on this issue.

Minister Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities of Canada, stated the importance of housing in prevention of violence and described the collaboration between the Canadian Mortgage Housing Corporation and Indigenous Services Canada on safe shelters and transitional housing for women and girls. The Minister went on to acknowledge the need to improve the number of homes built across Canada. The Minister expressed interest in distinctions-based discussions on housing support funding to ensure that programs are implemented well. The Minister also requested feedback from partners on the implementation of programming, and asked for their insights on how federal funding can reach those with the greatest level of need. He confirmed his commitment to co-development with Indigenous partners.

Long-term, sustainable funding

The Assembly of First Nations, the Ontario Native Women’s Association, Tobique First Nation, the 2SLGBTQI+ Committee, the Assembly of First Nations 2SLGBTQI+ Council, the Alberta Premier’s Council on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit Plus, Infinity Women Secretariat, and Saturviit, all expressed concerns about the current model for funding available to Indigenous communities and organizations. They reiterated that long-term, sustainable funding is required for Indigenous organizations to be able to plan and implement programs, as project-based funding is inconsistent, unreliable, and does not address the needs of communities. Funding needs to be accessible and should not put organizations against each other in competition for funding.

Minister Bernadette Smith stated that governments need to make investments into what communities and families need and recognized the need for communities and organizations to receive long-term core funding. The Ontario Native Women’s Association were concerned that they do not have core funding and the Assembly of First Nations noted the need for capacity-building for communities. The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs stated that the control governments have over how First Nations spend funding needs to come to end, and communities should be able to direct their spending.

Engagement with 2SLGBTQI+

The Assembly of First Nations 2SLGBTQI+ Council encouraged further regional partnership with Two-Spirit organizations to advance reconciliation. They also requested that federal representatives fully participate and establish a National Indigenous Persons Council. Governments must take a collaborative approach to addressing priorities. We must strive toward collaboration, inclusion, solutions, and demonstrate it in our advocacy efforts and support for survivors and families. The important role that grassroots organizations play was repeatedly raised and commended.

Minister Marci Ien expressed her support and interest in engaging further with 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, acknowledging the important role they play and voices they represent.

Minister Nahanni Fontaine agreed that we must safeguard and protect Two-Spirited relatives and prioritize their voices, experiences, and perspectives. We must center the discussion on legislation and how it impacts our 2SLGBTQI+ relatives. The Minister acknowledged how many 2SLGBTQI+ relatives are missing and murdered.

Empowering children and youth

The importance of both listening to, and protecting, Indigenous children and youth was raised repeatedly.

The Indigenous Women of the Wabanaki Territories questioned how governments and Indigenous organizations will keep Child and Family Services accountable, as many missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people come from the child welfare system. Both they and the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs noted how birth alerts were stopped in Nova Scotia and that more work is needed to ensure that children are supported, and the failures of the system are addressed.

Minister Nahanni Fontaine acknowledged these comments and described how, as Minister responsible for Families, including child welfare, in Manitoba, she agreed that the connection between child welfare and this work is essential to recognize and address. Manitoba has recently appointed a Special Advisor on Indigenous Women’s issues and secretary to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit Peoples and Gender-Based Violence Committee of Cabinet, who is a First Nations family advocate from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. The Minister went on to raise the significance of Bill C-92 (An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth, and families), and the success that one Manitoba First Nation has seen in asserting their child and family services jurisdiction. She went on to state that federal partnership is required to dismantle the current state of the child welfare system, and to do so effectively, critical issues, including housing, must be addressed.

The Native Women’s Association of Canada stated that children should be the top of our priority. There are many youths struggling with addictions; families are losing children to addiction. More work must be done to find out about why this is happening and how healing can be provided to youth and their families. The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs wants to build a youth center to prevent addiction and reduce the level of risk for children. Elder Grandmother Kathy Boston emphasized the need to address that children inherit their parents’ and relatives’ trauma.

The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations invited Ministers to sit with families and young people to hear children and youth’s voices. The Assembly of First Nations 2SLGBTQI+ Council raised concerns about provincial legislation that brings further harm, perpetuates violence, and limits children and youth’s ability to participate in society.

Urban supports

The National Association of Friendship Centres described the important role that friendship centers play in the lives of Indigenous people and families. Collaboration and consultation with urban Indigenous people are needed, as work is being done on the ground. In saying that, the need to ensure that families, youth, Elders are compensated and supported when consulted, was also raised. Elected leaders and governments must ensure that Indigenous peoples are safe, able to heal, thrive and that their rights are upheld and championed.

Tunngasugit Incorporated shared that they, like other urban or Inuit centers, do not receive support from provincial or territorial governments. Giganawenimaanaanig shared that in Winnipeg, organizations work together to support their community. They also raised a point similarly to one made by Minister Nahanni Fontaine: many of women and families are in urban environments because they have been displaced.

Data gathering and sharing

The need for governments and Indigenous organizations to work collaboratively on data gathering, data systems, and data sovereignty was discussed by several participants.

The Ontario Native Women’s Association’s comments included consideration of the impacts of data and data sovereignty. The Assembly of First Nations stated that more investments are required for data and to improve policy evaluation capacity. The Government of the Yukon shared how measuring success is difficult and are interested in working collaboratively to set up a system that can be regionalized, used by stakeholders, not owned by anyone, and provide a skeleton framework for technology that works for all partners to be proactive.

Minister Nahanni Fontaine raised similar insights. She highlighted Giganawenimaanaanig’s living database as a best practice and work Manitoba is doing with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs’ Women’s Secretariat. The Minister went on to state that there are no accurate numbers on MMIWG2S+ and that people need to lean into the work of reporting and providing data. Giganawenimaanaanig also emphasized the role of data and data sovereignty in addressing issues and gaps. Minister Marci Ien also requested data from all provinces and territories to ensure alignment and inclusiveness, and to make sure Indigenous voices are prioritized in program and policy design.

Safety and prevention, including the Red Dress Alert

Many participants viewed prevention as the critical step to addressing gender-based violence and increasing safety of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. Indigenous organizations expressed support for the Red Dress Alert.

The Métis National Council shared that they are optimistic about the Red Dress Alert initiative. It is a positive step forward in combating systemic issues for the Métis Nation. The Native Women Association of Canada urged the development of the Red Dress Alert and encouraged governments to also support it. Giganawenimaanaanig shared how work on the Red Dress Alert is shedding light on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on human trafficking. We must look at future issues and not just current issues and the impacts on the safety of families.

Tobique First Nation addressed questions raised by Minister Marci Ien; the solutions to issues can be easily implemented but the prevention of gender-based violence will be complex and difficult. Ministers need to act quickly for mobilization, such as during the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where coordination was quickly established to respond to a national threat. It was possible to do this with COVID, so why not MMIWG? They went on to address the Minister of Justice, commenting that it is a "Just-Us" system not a "justice" system. Minister Arif Virani emphasized that the Indigenous Justice Strategy is in line with the Calls for Justice, and that a restorative justice model is needed. He also added that restriking the Law Commission is underway, as is work on intimate partner violence, and Indigenous court worker programs.

The Union of BC Indian Chiefs’ shared the importance of prevention programs. As one of very few First Nations woman self-defense instructors, a participant advocated for education and awareness to begin at an early age. An example of a safety program provided by the Canadian Centre for Child Protective Safety Program, 'Kids in the Know Safety Program,’ was described as providing age-appropriate education to reduce victimization. The participant went on to add that there should be heightened awareness of MMIWG that accompanies this program, and that it should be mandatory in all school districts.

Infinity Women Secretariat is focused on gender-based violence prevention, citing that 88% of their membership is going through some form of violence. As part of this, Infinity Women Secretariat is providing education on finance and cyber safety. Deputy Minister Valerie Gideon spoke of Indigenous Services Canada’s programs and initiatives including the Family Violence Prevention Program. The Deputy Minister also described programs in partnership with Indigenous communities, such as the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations’ Red Eagle Lodge and the Sacred Women’s Program. The Yukon Government has been working in partnership with Indigenous women to implement a taxi safety program for Indigenous women.

The Assembly of First Nations sees the need for improved wrap-around supports, a national prevention strategy, and investments in healing. They are interested in seeing quicker progress on the Red Dress Alert, while ensuring that survivors’ voices are heard. The Assembly of First Nations 2SLGBTQI+ Council shared that protection of Two-Spirit peoples is critical to ending violence. Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak declared that there is nothing that will work without all of us collaborating towards solutions. They are interested in seeing how government can find ways to resource responses to the Calls for Justice.

The Ontario Native Women’s Association asked: what are the outcomes of addressing violence? Identifying this is foundational. How are partners measuring the impact for Indigenous women’s safety? Where is the impact? They went on to explain how the Indigenous healing and wellness strategy is working well in Ontario. They also described how the Ontario anti-human trafficking strategy, which was built in partnership with Indigenous communities, has helped 592 girls exit human trafficking this fiscal year.

The Honourable Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women's Social and Economic Opportunity, Government of Ontario, shared updates on the progress of the Ontario Government "Pathway to Safety," which addresses Calls for Justice, including the December 2023 progress report. It contains a whole-of-government approach, building on action from Indigenous communities and women organizations. The Government of Ontario’s actions are driven by the Indigenous Women’s Advisory Council. Indigenous women, communities, and partners have emphasized that solutions need to be led by Indigenous women.

Oversight and Indigenous and human rights ombudsperson

The Assembly of First Nations’ Women’s Council commented that the oversight body must include families and survivors. The Assembly of First Nations shared how progress on the National Action Plan has been slow and it is time for concrete support and steps. They also discussed the relationship between data collection and oversight, and how work on both is required.

The Assembly of First Nations’ Women’s Council commented that the oversight body must include families and survivors. The Assembly of First Nations shared how progress on the National Action Plan has been slow and it is time for concrete support and steps. They also discussed the relationship between data collection and oversight, and how work on both is required.

Indigenous men and boys

Several participants, including Elders and the Ontario Native Women’s Association, called on Indigenous men and boys to walk with Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. In addition to the role that men and boys have in eliminating gender-based violence against women, the Assembly of First Nations encouraged participants to remember missing Indigenous men and boys. Minister Marci Ien was interested in learning more about what Indigenous organizations are doing with men and boys, including best practices and gaps that need to be filled.

Looking forward: challenges and opportunities

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Women’s Council gave a history of the development of the AMC and explained their First Nation approach and advocacy for the MMIWG2S+ crisis in Manitoba, including the 1990 Justice Inquiry in response to Helen Betty Osborne’s death. The representative also spoke to mobilization of activities, including the development of a coalition of individuals on- and off-reserve. The AMC Women’s Council would like to be included in MMIWG2S+ consultation and noted the important role of women chiefs as caregivers of the community.

In response to Minister Wilson’s presentation, Giganawenimaanaanig, who attended virtually, asked in the virtual chat about the timeframe for "Pathway Forward" from the Government of Alberta and if drug courts are part of Alberta’s plan.

The British Columbia Native Women’s Association acknowledged the work of the tripartite working group with Canada, United States, and Mexico. They stated that the United States is surpassing Canada with Savanna’s Act, which is recognized both federally and by states tribally. Savanna’s Act aims to improve the federal response to missing and murdered Indigenous persons, including by increasing coordination amongst various levels of law enforcement agencies. Canada needs to do better, both federally and provincially and asked Ministers to speed this up. Cultural and wellness supports must be incorporated in future work.

Elder Sylvia Maracle provided comments on the ongoing work led by Indigenous peoples, and constant challenges of working with governments. Despite changes in government over time, and across the different priorities, the system still does not work, and it is broken. Elder Maracle advises governments that communities need to receive resources long-term.

Elder Albert Dumont commented that the Indian Act is the root of violence and suicides in the country and that it should be replaced with another Act, which implements accountability and reconciliation instead. Minister Dan Vandal, Northern Affairs, acknowledged Elder Dumont’s remarks, and spoke to the Indian Act being rooted in assimilation, and Christianization. The Minister went on to share that 8 years of work cannot erase 100 plus years of oppression, though we can continue to work together towards further improvements. Tobique First Nation also responded to Elder Dumont’s comments, sharing that treaties and UNDRIP have created alternatives to the Indian Act.

The Assembly of First Nations Women’s Council indicated that it is still waiting for meaningful advancement of the Calls for Justice. Canada must work in collaboration with First Nations survivors and families as there can be "nothing about us, without us."

The Native Women’s Association of Canada’s central goal is to tackle social and economic marginalization of Indigenous women. They shared how they were in attendance to call governments to prioritize and act upon the Calls for Justice. They were optimistic when the 231 Calls for Justice were released, but then it took years for the National Action Plan to come out. The Native Women’s Association of Canada has its own 65-point Action Plan, which is fully costed and includes measurable goals. They went on to provide details on specific programs being implemented, including the national awareness campaign and the creation of the safe passage initiative, and resiliency healing lodges. As there are currently only 2 provinces with resiliency lodges, they asked for increased collaboration from governments to pool resources and build more lodges.

Femmes Autochtones du Québec is celebrating its 50th year of existence and defending the rights of Indigenous women. In May 2024, in response to calls from Indigenous women in Québec, 160 Indigenous women from across the province will gather to discuss social and economic issues. This event will be an opportunity for the transmission of knowledge between youth and senior women, across communities. These discussions will provide a vision, led by Indigenous women in Québec, moving forward.

Minister Gary Anandasangaree committed to lead and accelerate the federal work pertaining to MMIWG2S+ and to report back to federal colleagues on discussions of the roundtable. There are areas of convergence across different areas of work being done in response to the National Action Plan. These areas include monitoring and reporting, health and wellness, language, and culture. The Minister also acknowledged the importance of housing, shelter, and infrastructure. He also referred to the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence National Action Plan and the importance of Indigenous-led services that are culturally safe and trauma informed. All this work requires the involvement of partners. The Calls for Justice call on all of us to make urgent changes. We are all here today because we are committed to doing this work. There are systemic issues that need to be addressed.

President Natan Obed, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, acknowledged the complexity of the work and the need for a whole-of-government approach. There are many outstanding issues and best practices must be implemented to be effective. President Obed noted his hope for a First Ministers meeting on the National Inquiry. He went on to describe the work on the National Action Plan being advanced through the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee. There are 48 Inuit-specific Calls for Justice and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami is seeking funding to support implementation.

Further, President Obed explained how so many priority issues are intertwined, such as residential school gravesites. In addition, more resources are needed for health support workers. It is a best practice to provide funding, training, and support for these workers to ensure the mental health community is strong.

The Métis National Council does not view MMIWG2S+ as a Government of Canada issue, but a Canadian issue, noting that a whole of society approach is required, led by Indigenous Peoples, and embedded in Section 35 and inherent rights, values, and culture. It is crucial that initiatives work to ensure the safety of Indigenous people. A pan-Indigenous approach will not suffice. The Métis Nation has been left behind in the past. Socioeconomic inequalities and barriers must be removed. The President acknowledged the Daniels decision (on April 14, 2016, the Supreme Court declared that Métis and non-Status Indians are "Indians" for the purpose of federal Parliament’s law-making jurisdiction under subsection 91(24) of the Constitution Act, 1867).

The Métis National Council does not view MMIWG2S+ as a Government of Canada issue, but a Canadian issue, noting that a whole of society approach is required, led by Indigenous Peoples, and embedded in Section 35 and inherent rights, values, and culture. It is crucial that initiatives work to ensure the safety of Indigenous people. A pan-Indigenous approach will not suffice. The Métis Nation has been left behind in the past. Socioeconomic inequalities and barriers must be removed. The President acknowledged the Daniels decision (on April 14, 2016, the Supreme Court declared that Métis and non-Status Indians are "Indians" for the purpose of federal Parliament’s law-making jurisdiction under subsection 91(24) of the Constitution Act, 1867).

The Native Women’s Association of Canada described their reaction to the discussions as hopeful: there is a lot of excellent work, with people trying their best to make Indigenous women and families safe. In saying that, they also noted that there are areas of urgent priority, such as housing, where action is required immediately.

Minister Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth of Canada, described the work her department is implementing through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. There is a pillar of the action plan that is specifically focused on implementing Indigenous led approaches. The Minister committed to investigate how to increase the current allocation of prevention funding. WAGE has bilateral agreements with all provinces and territories, which include prevention efforts. The Minister was interested in hearing insights from Indigenous participants and asked them about what is being done in their respective regions to increase prevention efforts, and what each province/territory is doing to improve prevention, infrastructure, and culturally appropriate services.

Minister Arif Virani provided participants with an update on the Indigenous Justice Strategy. Justice Canada is seeking to address and decrease overrepresentation of Indigenous people and women in the justice system, while also creating a justice system that is culturally appropriate for Indigenous people. The Minister described several investments made into supporting Indigenous victims of crime, families and communities, including Family Information Liaison Units.

The Honorable Ian Lafrenière, Minister responsible for Relationship with First Nations and Inuit, Government of Québec, shared how Québec consistently posts updates on their progress on implementation of their annual action plan. The Minister did note that their plan is not co-developed and wants to change this. He was interested in learning more from other partners on best practices for co-drafting plans. Education is a priority program area for Québec, with several related initiatives including community centers, training programs, and urban First Nations schools.

The Honourable Margaret Nakashuk, Minister responsible for Status of Women in Nunavut, expressed her interest in being more involved in work on MMIWG2S+. The Minister shared some of the barriers that are present in Nunavut, including a lack of shelters, though acknowledged partnership with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. There are distinct needs in the 25 communities, with some only reachable by plane. Challenges include lack of mental health resources, programs, and supports for individuals and families. The territory also does not have a forestry industry since it sits above the tree line, which limits their ability to build infrastructure without shipping in building materials from the South. The Minister predicts tangible improvements are possible if substantial funding increases are given. The Minister expressed that although they are grateful for the work that has been done so far, Canadians need to be aware that more support is required.

MP Leah Gazan extended her thanks to Minister Gary Anandasangaree for inviting her to participate in the roundtable. She also called on everyone present at the meeting to honour the people that were not around the table, to be inclusive, to continue to learn, and to create change.

Tri-Chairs closing remarks

Hilda Anderson-Pyrz encouraged participants to turn the hope from these discussions into action through permanent, sustained political will; inaction results in murder. Transformative change through a decolonized lens must be led by, and centered on, the voices of Indigenous women and girls. Participants must work together to change the narrative and to create outcomes for future generations. Accountability measures are needed to assess results and ensure impact is felt on the ground by Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The National Family and Survivors Circle’s vision is that all Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people can live safe, dignified lives where their Indigenous, treaty, and human rights are respected. All participants are part of and responsible for that vision. Ms. Anderson-Pyrz concluded her remarks by urging participants to remember that the work on these important issues continues and does not end when the meeting ends.

Minister Nahanni Fontaine acknowledged the frustration communicated around the table and recognized that Indigenous women have been leading this work for many years. The Minister recounted that pressure for the National Inquiry came from Indigenous women across the country, who continued their advocacy, despite MMIWG2S+ not being a priority of past governments. Families have done the work to get the current government to the table. The Minister acknowledged that a number of federal ministers were present over 2 days and recognized Minister Gary Anandasangaree for his reiterated commitment to MMIWG2S+. She noted that we are moving in the right direction and highlighted the significance of youth leaders present at the table as our future leaders.

Minister Gary Anandasangaree extended his thanks to all participants, his co-chairs, and the facilitators for their contributions during the 2 days of the roundtable. He provided some reflections on the 2-day meeting, acknowledging the unique lived experiences of all participants. When he was appointed Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations in July 2023, he accepted the challenge with a commitment to uphold his role as a minister to advocate for and support Indigenous peoples. The Minister seeks to amplify Indigenous voices and use his influence to create change in Canada. The Minister noted that 2SLGBTQI+ issues have recently been in the news broadly and encouraged everyone to defend and fight for the freedoms and human rights of others. Finally, the Minister recognized the work of MP Leah Gazan and committed to working together to advance work on MMIWG2S+.

Elders’ closings: Day 1 and 2

In closing remarks on day 1, Grandmother Kathy Boston offered prayers to our Sacred Grandmothers and Elder David Serkoak provided a teaching based off a quote by Elder David Suluk.

On day 2, Elder Maracle’s closing prayer recognized the discussions that had taken place over the past 2 days and the work still to be done. The Elder encouraged participants to find new ways of doing things and to continue working towards change. Elder Dumont encouraged all participants leaving the roundtable to be honorable in their actions moving forward. He provided a teaching on the wisdom of the pine trees on Algonquin territory. The pine trees are strong and high quality; their branches point towards the east. Elder Dumont explained that when one is going through challenging times, to look to the pine trees that teach us that tomorrow is a new chance for healing.

The roundtable concluded with Elder remarks and a women’s healing song performed by the British Columbia Native Women’s Association.

Next steps

Discussions at the IFPT focused on practical steps and outcomes towards addressing the Calls for Justice, the development of the Red Dress Alert, and the Minister’s Special Representative’s recommendations on Call for Justice 1.7 (ombudsperson). As such, the next steps coming out of this meeting are:

• the public release of the final report of the Minister’s Special Representative
• continued engagement on the Red Dress Alert
• the next IFPT roundtable, which will be planned for winter 2025