Assembly of First Nations: Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Calls for Establishment of Independent Inquiry into the Deaths of Rebecca Contois, Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe

Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Calls for Establishment of Independent Inquiry into the Deaths of Rebecca Contois, Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and Mashkode Bizhiki'ikwe

(July 12, 2024 – Kanien'kehá:ka Nation, Montréal, Québec) – Today, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is calling for the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry into the deaths of Rebecca Contois, Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and Mashkode Bizhiki'ikwe, following the conviction of Jeremy Skibicki of first-degree murder of their deaths.  

Yesterday, in a press conference with family members of Morgan Harris, Manitoba leadership, AFN Regional Chief Wendell LaBobe, AFN 2SLGBTQQIA+ and Women's Councils, AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak stated, "We recognize the strength and resilience of the families and loved ones throughout this heartbreaking process and assure them of our continued support," said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. "We have seen persistent failures within the provincial criminal justice system to investigate and prosecute this case and a lack of sensitivity for the healing process that the families deserve."

On Wednesday, First Nations-in-Assembly passed Draft Resolution "Call for Independent Inquiry into the Deaths of Rebecca Contois, Morgan Harris", Marcedes Myran, and Mashkode Bizhiki'ikwe. "The independent inquiry must be led by First Nations commissioners, based on recommendations and input from the AMC. An inquiry led by First Nations will be essential in addressing gaps where the justice system has proven inadequate and lacked sensitivity," said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. "As further details surrounding the handling of the case come to light, we believe it is critical that First Nations laws and protocols guide the way to healing and restoration for those who are grieving their loved ones. An independent inquiry will both address the conduct of provincial institutions and restore respect for families and Survivors."

"This tragedy is yet another reminder that governments continue to fall short of securing justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and gender-diverse people," concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. "The safety and security of First Nations women, girls, and gender diverse people is a priority for First Nations and must be a priority for all levels of government. We urge on Honourable Anita Neville, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, to immediately establish a commission to undertake this inquiry."

Support is available. The Hope for Wellness Help Line provides immediate mental health counseling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous people across Canada. This toll-free service is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To talk with someone, please call 1-855-242-3310.

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern. 

Follow AFN on X @AFN_Updates.

Contact information:

Jon Adam Chen
Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
jchen@afn.ca
(343)-573-2229 (mobile)            

Jamie Monastyrski                                     
Press Secretary                                          
Office of the National Chief                  
jamiem@afn.ca  
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)                          

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