NWAC Statement on Manitoba Advocate for Children & Youth Report

*** This content could be triggering as it contains information on MMIWG and child welfare***

Ottawa, ON — On Tuesday, March 12, 2019, the Manitoba Advocate for Children & Youth (MACY) released a report on the numerous systems designed to protect vulnerable youth in the city that failed Tina Fontaine leading up to her death. NWAC sends our support to Tina Fontaine’s family, loved ones and community during this difficult time.

This report demonstrates the desperate need for coordination amongst services. Communities and families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) have asked for these services for far too long.

Throughout the National Inquiry into MMIWG, NWAC heard the urgent need for timely, accessible, culturally-appropriate mental health services and supports, and the importance of reforming the child welfare system. This report also reflects the urgency of addressing these issues.

We must move towards prevention, as opposed to reaction. We need readily available, accessible, culturally-appropriate mental health services and supports within our communities, and greater, more coordinated, responses for our urban youth as well.

NWAC calls for widespread recognition of the importance of customary and traditional care arrangements. The role of extended family in caring for children must be encouraged and respected in order to keep communities and families together.

NWAC commends the Manitoba Advocate for Children & Youth for this difficult, but essential report. We must continue to work tirelessly to end violence and create safety for Indigenous women, girls, and gender diverse people and their communities.

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For more information please contact Lucy Juneau – Director of Communications
ljuneau@nwac.ca | 343-997-3756

NT5