Today, October 4th, is the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in Canada. This day is a reminder to honour the lives of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people who have been murdered, abused, or gone missing at disproportionately high rates. It is our collective responsibility to advocate for justice, change, and safety for these communities.
I’m pleased to announce the October 17th premiere of Stories of Hope & Strength, a powerful new series of short films created by an incredible team of Indigenous and ally filmmakers. This online series highlights the resilience, courage, and enduring hope that thrive within Indigenous communities across Canada. These films were made in response to the Calls for Justice, ensuring that the voices and stories of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people are shared authentically, without bias or distortion.
Our series, produced alongside Mary Teegee and Cassidy Shuvera with the incredible support of Carrier Sekani Family Services and funding participation from Women and Gender Equality, were shot across Canada and brought forth personal stories of strength, wisdom, and survival. One standout documentary short features Tracie Léost, a youth Métis activist and recipient of prestigious awards, including the 2018 Youth Métis Indspire Award and 2022 CBC Future 40. Her journey of activism and leadership is an inspiring reminder of the change being driven by Indigenous women. I can’t wait for the world to witness her story, along with the others we’ve so carefully brought to life.
As we prepare for the release of Stories of Hope & Strength, I want to remind everyone that Highway of Tears is available on YouTube. The film delves into the devastating disappearances and murders of Indigenous women along British Columbia’s Highway 16, and it continues to raise awareness of an ongoing tragedy that has impacted so many families.
After watching the film, I encourage you to take meaningful action. One powerful step is to review the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. These calls outline ways for individuals, communities, and governments to support Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. By learning about these calls and sharing them, we can help bring about the systemic changes needed to create safer and more just communities. Let’s continue this fight together.
Please join me in remembering the lost and supporting the movement to end violence against Indigenous women and gender-diverse people. Share their stories, raise awareness, and call for systemic change. No more stolen sisters.
As we continue to push for justice, I invite you to take a moment today to pray for the families of those who are missing or have been murdered. Their pain is unimaginable, and they deserve to be seen, heard, and supported in their grief. Every life lost is a tragedy that we must never forget. Together, we can make a difference by raising awareness, sharing their stories, and fighting for justice.
With gratitude and hope,
Matt Smiley
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