National Inquiry concludes third Community Hearing on the East Coast

Happy Valley – Goose Bay, Labrador –An additional 27 family members and survivors of violence were able to share their truths with the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls this week on the traditional lands of the Innu. The gathering on March 7 and March 8, 2018 marked the 12th Community Hearing across the country.

Over two days, there were eight public proceedings with a total of 10 family members sharing their truths with Commissioners Qajaq Robinson and Brian Eyolfson. There were also another 11 witnesses who gave testimony in eight private (in camera) hearings and six individuals spoke with Statement Gatherers.

The re-occurring theme of colonization including residential schools, 60’s scoop, and child welfare were shared with the Commissioners in each of the testimony that was gathered in Labrador. Regional distinctions also came to light including food security, resource extraction and the effects it has on the people of this land.

“Far too long, recognizing the rights of Indigenous people and Indigenous women, when it comes to governments, has been dependent on the resources that you stand on, whether it’s a dam, a mine, a pipeline, conversation about Indigenous rights doesn’t happen until there’s a resource people want,” said Commissioner Robinson in the closing ceremony.

The National Inquiry will be hosting a Community Hearing next week in Montreal, QC as the Truth Gathering Process continues.

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Released by:
National Inquiry Communications
Email: media@mmiwg-ffada.ca
Communication Lead : Tiar Wilson
t.wilson@mmiwg-ffada.ca or (204) 298- 7243

NT5