MKO Expresses Deepest Condolences to the Family of Ashlee Shingoose, Also Known as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe (Buffalo Woman)

March 26, 2025

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) extends our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Ashlee Shingoose, who was given the name Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe (Buffalo Woman) by community members. A cherished mother, sister and daughter, Ashlee has now been identified as the fourth victim of the tragic and senseless violence that claimed the lives of four Indigenous women in 2022 in Winnipeg, MB.

We extend our thoughts and prayers to Ashlee’s family as they face the immense sorrow of this new information. We hold space for their grief and honor their unwavering strength as they have carried the heavy burden of searching for answers and seeking justice. Ashlee was a beloved relative, and community member. This loss is felt beyond measure.

MKO stands in solidarity with Ashlee’s family and the loved ones of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and Rebecca Contois, whose lives were senselessly stolen. Their memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew them.

We applaud Premier Wab Kinew and his commitment to the family to search the Brady Landfill for her remains. We commend Mayor Scott Gillingham’s commitment to supporting that search. Indigenous women deserve that respect.

The tragic loss of Ashlee and her sisters in spirit is a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. We echo the families’ calls for meaningful action to protect Indigenous lives, demand justice, and hold systems accountable.

To all those impacted by this tragedy, we offer our compassion and support. MKO’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Liaison Unit remains available to provide wellness, health, and cultural support services to families, survivors, and community members affected by this heartbreaking news.

If you are in need of support, please contact the MKO MMIWG Liaison Unit:

For those in need of support, the MKO MMIWG Liaison Unit can be reached at:

• Toll Free 1-800-750-7566
• Email: mmiwg.intake@mkonorth.com
• Facebook: MKO MMIWG Liaison Unit

Additional health and wellness support resources:

• The Hope for Wellness helpline is available 24/7 by calling 1-855-242-3310 or visiting https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/
• The National MMIWG2S+ crisis line is available 24/7 at 1-844-413-6649.

We will continue to honor Ashlee Shingoose – Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe and all MMIWG2S+ relatives by walking alongside families in their pursuit of truth, justice, and healing.

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For more information:

Jill Macyshon, Communications Officer

Email: Jill.Macyshon@mkonorth.com

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that has represented 26 First Nation communities in Manitoba’s North since 1981. The MKO represents more than 72,000 First Nations people.

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