Fifth Anniversary of the National Inquiry into MMIWG Report: Quebec Native Women Hopes for More Progress

Press Release

Kahnawake, June 5, 2024 – Quebec Native Women (QNW) marks the 5th anniversary of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) report, and joins organizations calling for more progress in the application and implementation of measures for the protection of Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

QNW recognizes the progress that has been made over the past five years, particularly in terms of the authorities’ increased awareness of this issue. However, the organization urges all levels of government to commit to doing more, and to working with Indigenous organizations and families.

“With the general increase in social precariousness, the ongoing lack of adequate housing and difficult access to services, Indigenous women and girls are particularly at risk of violence of all kinds. Women, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, and their families need government bodies and civil society to do more, and to take much faster action,” says Marjolaine Étienne, President of Quebec Native Women.

The National Inquiry into MMIWG has produced a report specific to Quebec, highlighting certain particularities, such as the tragic cases of missing children in the province’s healthcare establishments. Bill 79, adopted by the Quebec government in 2021, is a step in the right direction. However, the refusal to adopt Joyce’s Principle and acknowledge the existence of discrimination and systemic racism undermines the safety and security of Indigenous women and girls in the province.

“Although it’s important that in-depth work is carried out at all levels, it’s essential that the Quebec government understands that the problem is systemic, and therefore must make decisions and take action. The adoption of Joyce’s Principle and the recognition of systemic racism and discrimination cannot be set aside, as they are the foundations for achieving a society that is safe and secure for Indigenous women and girls”, concludes the President of Quebec Native Women.

About QNW

Quebec Native Women is a non-profit organization that has been representing Quebec’s First Nations and urban Indigenous women for 50 years.

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Source:

Quebec Native Women: https://faq-qnw.org/

Contact for information and interview requests:

Émilie Deschênes

Media Relations Associate
(873) 662-8558
e.deschenes@seize03.ca

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