The second meeting of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council took place on September 26 and 27, 2023 in Corner Brook. The goal of the Reconciliation Council is to coordinate and lead meaningful action to address existing challenges and obstacles in the areas of culture, health and wellness, justice, and human security, which impact Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
Discussions took place regarding the Terms of Reference and potential sub-committees. There were discussions and action planning surrounding ‘starting point’ recommendations brought forward at the inaugural June 2023 meeting, as well as the various other recommendations contained in the “Hear Our Voices: MMIWG Policy Recommendations of the First Women of Newfoundland and Labrador” report.
The meetings included traditional Indigenous opening and closing ceremonies along with prayers. In addition, presentations were delivered on the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence and on health transformation.
The establishment of the Reconciliation Council holds particular significance in light of the upcoming National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. The Council plays a pivotal role in acknowledging the historical injustices experienced by Indigenous communities in Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada.
By engaging with the Calls for Justice regarding missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, fostering collaboration with Indigenous communities, and heightening public awareness about the imperative for reconciliation, the Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council is just one example of the Provincial Government’s commitment to rectifying past wrongs and advancing a more equitable and inclusive future for all residents.
The Reconciliation Council is composed of 11 members, including five Provincial Government representatives and six Indigenous women representatives. There are three Co-Chairs: one appointed to represent government, and two Elders appointed by the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee.
The formation of the Reconciliation Council was a recommendation of the “Hear Our Voices” report. This action is a further commitment from the Provincial Government to work collaboratively and in partnership with Indigenous Governments and Organizations to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
Quotes
“Violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people will not be tolerated in this province. By working in partnership with Indigenous women, their governments and organizations, and listening to their concerns, we will make positive strides together, to prevent violence in our communities.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“It is gratifying to see the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council moving forward and setting forth a plan. Guided by the recommendations contained in the report, the Council is embarking on a path to work as one to deal directly with the violence faced by Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
“Today we gathered with a shared commitment to healing and justice. The 196 recommendations put forth in the four pillars of the report on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of affected communities. Together, we are forging a path forward, guided by compassion, respect, and a committed dedication to reconciliation. It will be through our efforts that we will turn these recommendations into meaningful action, ensuring that our voices and experience of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are not only heard, but honored.”
Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
“I am happy to be part of the Reconciliation Council that was formed to help end violence and racism against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. We are in the beginning and planning stages, however, I am hopeful that with government and Indigenous people working together, we can make a difference, and start to see change happening that will have a positive impact in our communities.”
Charlotte Wolfrey
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
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National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence
Office of Women and Gender Equality
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