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Unifor members joined communities across Canada on February 14 to participate in the Women's Memorial March, a solemn annual event that honours the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people (MMIWG2S) and calls for justice.
In Terrace, B.C., Unifor Indigenous Relations Director Gina Smoke and B.C. Regional Council Chair Leanne Marsh attended the march on unceded Ts’msyen territory, demonstrating Unifor’s unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and systemic change. Meanwhile, Unifor members also took part in the annual march through Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, where the event was first held in 1992.
"Our participation in these marches reflects our deep commitment to Indigenous communities," said Unifor National President Lana Payne. "The crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people demands our unwavering attention. We cannot rest until the violence stops."
Following events in Terrace, Smoke and Marsh presented a cheque to representatives from the Tears to Hope Society. $20,000 was raised last fall during Unifor’s nation-wide participation in the Society’s fundraising relay race.
Unifor continues to push for the full implementation of the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into MMIWG2S, while advocating for meaningful policy changes to improve safety, economic security, and justice for Indigenous communities.
“These marches are a powerful act of remembrance, but also a call to action,” said Gina Smoke. “Every step we take honours those we’ve lost and strengthens our resolve to demand justice and meaningful change for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people.”
