Coast Salish Territory (Vancouver, BC) – On International Women’s Day, the BC First Nations Leadership Council expresses its greatest respect to all women who collectively contribute to the strength and security of our families, communities and Nations.
BC Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief Jody Wilson-Raybould stated “International women’s day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women across the globe but also a time to reflect on the challenges far too many women still face; in particular the need to take action to end violence against women and girls. Incidences of violence against aboriginal women remain far too high and a deadly violation of women’s rights. . We call on the provincial and federal governments to work with First Nations and increase our collective efforts to end violence against women and girls.”
“Unfortunately, every First Nation in BC knows the great sorrow of losing one of their daughters, one of their mothers or one of their aunties to senseless violence. Given the many police investigations, criminal prosecutions or cold cases in the downtown eastside of Vancouver and along the many highways across the country, it is unacceptable that the Government of Canada continues to ignore the need for a full and thorough public inquiry into the missing and murdered women of our communities” said Grand Chief Edward John of the First Nations Summit Political Executive.