Statement from the Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking on Sisters in Spirit Day and the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people

October 4, 2025

On this National Day of Action, we honour the lives of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people who have been lost to violence and exploitation. We stand in solidarity with families, Survivors, and communities who continue to seek justice, healing, and lasting change.

This day is a solemn reminder of the disproportionate violence faced by Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. In Canada, we must confront the deep-rooted systems that allow trafficking and exploitation to persist. As Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, I carry this responsibility with humility and urgency. My commitment is to advance meaningful, coordinated, and accountable action across federal systems—guided by the Calls for Justice issued by the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

The Calls for Justice are not just recommendations—they are a clear plan for change. They call for institutional reform, Indigenous-led solutions, and sustained federal coordination and funding. They demand that we listen, act, and remain accountable.

On this day of remembrance, I reaffirm my commitment to working in partnership with Indigenous communities, Survivors, and advocates. Indigenous Peoples have been speaking out for generations—sharing truths, demanding justice, and offering the solutions that will work in their communities. The Final Report of the National Inquiry amplified those voices and laid out a clear path forward.

Let this day be more than a moment of reflection. Let it be a renewed call to action.

I urge all Canadians to listen deeply, honour what Indigenous Peoples have been saying for decades, and take meaningful steps to support change. You can:

  1. Listen to and amplify Indigenous voices—engage with the Calls for Justice, attend community-led events, and support Indigenous advocacy.
  2. Support Indigenous-led services and organizations—volunteer, donate, and advocate for sustainable funding for culturally safe programs.
  3. Advocate for policy change and accountability—call on governments to act on the Calls for Justice and support systemic reforms that reduce violence and protect Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Ending exploitation and violence requires collective awareness, advocacy, and accountability. Your voice, your choices, and your actions matter.

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