Seven Years After National Inquiry, MKO Demands Immediate Action on MMIWG Calls for Justice
Press Release
June 3, 2026
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) is recognizing the seventh anniversary of the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Today also marks five years since the release of the 2021 National Action Plan and the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People.
MKO honours the families, Survivors, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and advocates whose courage and testimony shaped the National Inquiry. We remember and honour all Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse people whose lives have been taken by violence. Their families continue to carry immeasurable grief while waiting for meaningful action.
“Our women, girls, and Two-Spirit people are still going missing, still being targeted, and still overrepresented in every measure of violence,” said Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “This crisis continues today, and governments must act with the urgency that our families deserve.”
While distinctions-based action plans and investments in community safety, culturally informed victim services, and Indigenous-led initiatives represent steps forward, progress remains far too slow. Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people continue to face disproportionate violence, and systemic barriers remain largely unchanged.
MKO calls on all levels of government to accelerate the full implementation of the 231 Calls for Justice. Commitments must be matched with accountability, sustained resources, and genuine partnership with Indigenous communities.
Heidi Spence, MKO’s MMIWG Liaison Director, stated:
“I am reminded that behind every Call for Justice is a family member seeking answers, a community seeking healing, and a life that mattered and still matters. We owe it to the families and further generations to ensure the full implementation of all 231 Calls for Justice with urgency, accountability, and commitment.”
MKO reaffirms its commitment to supporting families and Survivors and advancing the Calls for Justice. We will continue to advocate, support, and work alongside families and their Nations, until meaningful change is achieved.
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