2020
Statement by Quebec Native Women marking the first anniversary of the NIMMIWG final report
Kahnawake, June 3rd, 2020 – Quebec Native Women (QNW) would like to mark the first anniversary of the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (NIMMIWG) final report. A year ago, we emphasized that this report represented the beginning of a long process of change and transformation of institutions and their practices. It is clear that concrete action on the part of government institutions is still needed.
On June 14th, 2019, QNW, along with its provincial counterparts, met with federal government representatives to share its own recommendations for action. We then recommended the implementation of a national consultation through provincial task groups that would result in a national pooling of information. We believe that the expertise of the various Indigenous women’s organizations across the country must be put to good use, since it is these organizations that, like ours, work with women and families on a daily basis.
In our brief submitted to the NIMMIWG, we strongly denounced the inability of the judicial system to protect our women and girls. Police interactions in Quebec are still marked by racism, racial profiling, and ineffectiveness in the face of the disappearances and acts of violence committed against (Indigenous?) women and girls.
” Sadly, every week we continue to witness the disappearance of our mothers, daughters and sisters. The safety and integrity of Indigenous women should not be affected by administrative and government delays. The government must stop making excuses and take the necessary steps to fulfill its responsibilities. We are talking about human lives here! » – Viviane Michel, President of QNW.
Since its founding in 1974, QNW has worked hand in hand with Indigenous women to eliminate all forms of discrimination and violence. Today, more than ever, we realize the importance of being present at the front lines to represent them and carry their voice. No matter what governments may say, systemic racism is indeed present and its effects are being felt. There needs to be real collaboration.
Finally, we would like to remind you that we are continuing our work of consultation with families and that a consultation is being prepared with the intention to submit our own action plan to the federal government.
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Information:
Jay Launière-Mathias – Communications and Special Events Officer
Cell : 514-777-4831
