Hundreds to participate Women’s Memorial March in downtown PG

Prince George is one of several locations across BC and Western Canada to host a Women’s Memorial March today (Friday).

It runs from 12:30 to 3:30pm where it will start at the PG Native Friendship Centre before wrapping up at the courthouse downtown.

The event is to both honour and raise awareness of the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited people.

“The issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit+ (MMIWG2S+) resonates deeply with me and my community. The loss of our mothers, sisters, daughters, and relatives who have been taken too soon is a crisis deeply rooted in a history of violence and systemic injustices. We must advocate tirelessly for justice, healing, and safety for our women, girls, and Two Spirit+ individuals. Our voices must be amplified, and we must work together to reclaim our power and protect future generations. We are constantly reminded of the urgent need for change, and we stand united in remembrance and as champions for dignity and respect for all Indigenous lives.” said Cheryl Rule, BC Assembly of First Nations Women’s Representative.

Regional Chief Terry Teegee said the annual march is a powerful act of remembrance and advocacy.

“As we gather today, we stand united in our commitment to the safety and dignity of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals. We continue to call for government agencies to coordinate actions, report progress and maintain transparency, and build and sustain genuine partnership in accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.”

BC Premier David Eby issued the following statement regarding the march:

“Today, hundreds of people will come together on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside to honour and advocate for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people. They will walk through the streets, pausing where the missing and murdered were last seen or found. They will remember, mourn and call for an end to racism, inequity and gender-based violence.

“Our government stands with survivors, supporters and the loved ones left behind – and we are answering their call.

“We are taking action to end the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people by working in partnership with Indigenous people to increase safety and supports for survivors, uplift Indigenous-led approaches and break the cycle of violence through prevention, healing and accountability.

“It is fitting that the Women’s Memorial March is on Valentine’s Day. Everyone we have lost was deeply loved by their family, friends and community. In memory of all missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people, we recommit to ending racism and gender-based violence so everyone in B.C. can enjoy a lifetime of love without the risk of being harmed just because of who they are.”