(Lheidli T’enneh Territory, Prince George, BC) – On October 4, 2025, the BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) honours the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, and all Gender-Diverse People as part of the National Day of Action. This day serves as moments of collective remembrance, resistance, and advocacy—a time to gather in solidarity, attend vigils, participate in red dress campaigns, and support community-led events that reflect the profound grief, strength, and resilience of Indigenous communities.
The BCAFN, in solidarity with grassroots Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, survivors, families, and allied organizations, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to seeking justice, accountability, and systemic change. We continue to call for the full implementation of the 231 Calls for Justice outlined in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, and for all governments and institutions to meaningfully engage in this urgent and ongoing work.
In support of the National Day of Action, BCAFN Women’s Representative, Cheryl Rule, stated, “While we acknowledge the efforts currently being undertaken to respond to the Calls for Justice and to enhance supports for First Nations women and girls, it is evident that a comprehensive, coordinated, and culturally grounded approach remains critically necessary. First Nations must be at the forefront of this work—leading the process and holding the pen. True systemic transformation cannot occur within structures that were not designed to protect or serve First Nations Communities. The current systems continue to prioritize the interests of colonial institutions and maintain barriers that hinder meaningful progress. The public, private sector, and all levels of government must confront this reality and act with urgency. I will work to carry forward the voices of the thousands of survivors, families, and advocates who have contributed to over 3,000 recommendations in British Columbia alone, calling for justice and lasting change.”
The BCAFN 2SLGBTQQIA+ Representative, Orene Askew, further reaffirmed, “The work of advancing the National Action Plan on MMIWG2S+ must be survivor- and family-led and grounded in the lived experiences of First Nation women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. Governments at all levels have a responsibility to take immediate and concrete action to support the full realization of the Calls for Justice. This includes increasing resources for community-driven initiatives, supporting culturally safe healing programs, and centering the voices and leadership of First Nation women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. Today, we honour the memories of those we have lost, recognize the tireless efforts of advocates, and uplift those working at the grassroots level to restore wellness, safety, and dignity in our communities.”
More than six years have passed since the release of the Final Report of the National Inquiry, and the lack of substantial progress remains deeply concerning. The failure to fully implement the Calls for Justice reflects a troubling absence of urgency and commitment from those in positions of power. The BCAFN remains resolute in its mandate to advocate for systemic change, support families and survivors, and demand that the justice system, institutions, and governments be held accountable.
On this National Day of Action, we honour the lives stolen, support the families who continue to seek truth and justice, and reaffirm the collective responsibility to end the ongoing crisis of gender- and race-based violence against First Nation women, girls, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse peoples.