National Day of Action for MMIWG2S

Winnipeg Regional Health Authority
Published Thursday, October 3, 2024

October 4th holds significant importance in Canada as a day dedicated to raising awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit (MMIWG2S) individuals. This day is observed through vigils, gatherings, and public events to honor those lost to violence and to advocate for justice, healing, and systemic reform.

Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people in Canada experience disproportionately high rates of violence compared to non-Indigenous populations. This national crisis is rooted in systemic racism, colonial legacies, and ongoing social inequities that have left Indigenous communities especially vulnerable.

Health care is a crucial aspect intertwined with the MMIWG2S crisis. Indigenous individuals often face significant barriers to accessing culturally sensitive and equitable health care services. Many experience discrimination, neglect, or mistrust within the health system, leading to inadequate treatment and poor health outcomes. A lack of access to mental health services, trauma-informed care, and essential medical support further exacerbates the vulnerability of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people, leaving them at greater risk of violence.

October 4th serves as a day for families, advocates, and community members to come together in remembrance and pursuit of justice. It also serves as a call for action from government, law enforcement, and the health care system to address the root causes of violence, including poverty, marginalization, and inadequate support services.

This day emphasizes the need for long-term, sustainable solutions that safeguard the dignity and safety of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals. By observing this day, we strengthen the call for reconciliation, equity, and meaningful efforts to prevent future violence.