Esquao – February 28, 2025 Media Release

Edmonton, Alberta – February 28, 2025, The identification of possible human remains at a Manitoba landfill is a painful reminder and once again brings to light the devastating crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S) in Canada. This discovery serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for continued action, justice, and unwavering support for the families and communities affected by this ongoing tragedy.

Indigenous communities across the country continue to bear the profound loss of their loved ones, while systemic barriers hinder access to justice. The identification of these remains may be a critical step toward closure for the family involved, but it also highlights the broader need for meaningful action to prevent further loss and address the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals.

The families of MMIWG2S deserve justice, action, and systemic change. Indigenous women and girls deserve to be safe in their own communities.

We call on all levels of government, law enforcement, and the broader public to support Indigenous-led solutions, including support for search efforts, culturally appropriate victim services, and policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people.

We at Esquao wish to express our support and respect for the families of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran and Rebecca Contois during this very difficult time and we pray that the discovery helps them on their healing journey.

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For more information on Esquao visit iaaw.ca or email iaaw@iaaw.ca if you have any further questions.

About Esquao

Esquao, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW), is a non-profit organization that recognizes the role, value, and achievements of Indigenous women in society and raises awareness around the challenges facing them. Esquao offers culturally respectful programming in violence prevention, achieving justice, financial literacy, healthy relationships, housing capacity building, and leadership development for Indigenous women and girls.

Esquao is the stylized version of the Cree word for woman.

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