Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Pre-Inquiry Online Survey
- EFN Staff | January 06, 2016
As part of its commitment to an inclusive and respectful engagement process, the Government of Canada has announced the launch of an online survey to inform the design of the inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
Building on the input gathered from the engagement sessions being held across Canada, this online survey will allow survivors, family members, loved ones of victims, front-line service providers and others the opportunity to provide input into who should conduct the inquiry, its timeframe, who should be heard as part of the inquiry process, and what issues should be considered.
A discussion guide also has been developed and is now available online. The guide is also being used at engagement sessions to help focus discussions by highlighting important elements and key questions for consideration and providing additional information.
"We want to hear from Canadians on this issue of national significance. I encourage everyone to read the discussion guide and participate in this process via the online survey. We need to hear from all Canadians – especially survivors, families and loved ones, Indigenous organizations, and provinces and territories – to help us identify the best process for this inquiry," said The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs.
Summaries from the pre-inquiry design sessions will be posted online and, once the engagement process is complete, a final summary of what was heard during the sessions and through the online survey will be posted online.
Although Indigenous women make up 4 per cent of Canada's female population,16 per cent of all women murdered in Canada between 1980 and 2012 were Indigenous women. Indigenous women are 3 times more likely to report experiencing violence.
"The Government of Canada believes that an inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls can only be designed after hearing from those directly affected. We are committed to an inclusive and respectful engagement process which incorporates the viewpoints and perspectives of those impacted by this national tragedy," added The Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada.
For further information: http://www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/eng/1448633299414/1448633350146