Statement from Minister McLean on Sisters in Spirit Vigil and National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ People

Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:

“Today, I ask all Yukoners to join me in recognizing the Sisters in Spirit Vigil and the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ People.

“The Native Women’s Association of Canada began the Sisters in Spirit initiative in 2004. What began as a one-year campaign to raise awareness of violence against Indigenous women in our country has grown into a nationwide movement. Every year on October 4, Indigenous women’s organizations hold Sisters in Spirit vigils and walks across the country to honour the memory of wives, sisters, daughters, aunties, Elders and mothers lost. This day has become a solemn call to action – a time for us to demand real, lasting change.

“Here in Whitehorse, the Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council (YAWC) will lead a Sisters in Spirt vigil and walk today. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to YAWC for their unwavering support of Yukon’s Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit+ people.

“The work of organizations like the Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council, the Whitehorse Aboriginal Women’s Circle and the Liard Aboriginal Women’s Society embodies the strength and resilience of Indigenous women. These organizations tirelessly raise awareness about the systemic discrimination and racism that persist in our communities.

“However, it is crucial to recognize that the responsibility of this work cannot rest solely on the shoulders of Indigenous women.

“Our government is committed to addressing the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit+ people. We are taking meaningful action now on many items that align with the implementation plan for Changing the Story to Upholding Dignity and Justice: Yukon’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ Strategy. 

“This 15-year, whole-of-Yukon strategy, led by the Yukon Advisory Committee on MMIWG2S+, is a collaborative effort. It involves many Government of Yukon departments and organizational partners all working together to drive systemic change. At the end of this month, I look forward to the third annual Accountability Forum, where we will reflect on the first annual report and the progress being made across our territory.

"I applaud the many signatories of this strategy who have committed to working with Indigenous women’s organizations. Our government remains committed to being part of a positive, measurable change for Yukoners.

“Today, I urge every Yukoner to take a moment today to reflect on the lives impacted by MMIWG2S+ in our territory and across the country. Together, we can – and must – create a future where dignity, safety and justice are upheld for everyone.”