FSIN Vice Chief Heather Bear (right) speaking with youth during the AFN Special Chief’s Assembly. Photo credit Robert Cote
First Nations organizations from across the country reacted on Tuesday, to the announcement of the federal inquiry into missing and murdered indigenous women.
Some say the inquiry is long overdue, others say the inquiry will show that racism is alive and well in Canada, and some describe it as a bold step forward.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement during the Assembly of First Nations Special Assembly. In Ottawa, Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould, Indigenous Affairs Minister Carolyn Bennett and Status of Women Minister Patty Hajdu provided more details on what shape the inquiry will take.
FSIN Vice-Chief Heather Bear says there is hope, optimism, but also skepticism at the assembly, adding that another group of missing people needs to be addressed.
“The other item that came up of importance was that resonating across the room was the men and boys, they’re over-represented in this country as far as the issue,” said Bear. “Although the women and girls have this big issue that just pertains to the women. We need to look at addressing missing and murdered indigenous persons as a whole as well.”
Bear says the FSIN will work with families, grass root organizations, and consult with leadership to get their input on the inquiry process.