Join the Movement: “Historic North Okanagan Gathering Demands Justice for Indigenous Women

A gathering in Splatsin on May 1 aimed to bring attention to the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirited People. Over 200 people from various Indigenous nations came together at the Splatsin Community Centre, rallying for justice and remembrance.

Organized by Jody Leon, this event was historic—marking the first inter-nation gathering of the 35 Interior Salish nations since the 19th century. It showcased collaboration between Indigenous governments and the City of Enderby, a powerful step towards addressing this urgent issue.

The atmosphere shifted as bear and jingle dancers took center stage, leading the crowd in honoring those lost. Many attendees wore red dresses, symbolizing the messages like "No more stolen sisters" and "Gone but not forgotten." This rally was particularly significant, occurring just four days before Red Dress Day, a day dedicated to honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

The event focused on two local cases: Deanna Wertz and Caitlin Potts. Wertz was last seen in July 2016, while Potts disappeared in February 2016. Both families continue to seek answers, with investigations into their cases raising concerns of foul play.

Leon urged anyone with information to come forward about these women, as well as about Traci Genereaux, who went missing at 18. Her remains were found later in 2017, yet justice remains elusive. The recent death of Curtis Sagmoen, a person of interest in Genereaux’s case, has sparked hope that witnesses might be more willing to share what they know.

Candy Merlo, Genereaux’s aunt, detailed the circumstances surrounding her niece’s death, echoing the broader struggles of vulnerable women. She noted that the last time clusters of women disappeared and bodies were found on a farm was in the notorious case of Robert Pickton, a grim reminder of the dangers facing Indigenous women.

Sue Brown, a Vancouver lawyer who advocates for the rights of women and girls, participated via video link. She emphasized that violence against Indigenous girls often goes unaddressed by law enforcement and policymakers. "We have observed that almost exclusively Indigenous girls’ cases are not taken seriously," she said.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip praised the community spirit at the Splatsin Centre, stressing the need for unity in confronting colonial injustices. "We are beginning to show up, speak up, and stand up," he stated, highlighting the progress being made.

The event also tackled the opioid crisis, which has severely affected Indigenous communities in recent years. T-shirts calling for an end to the overdose epidemic were available, reflecting the urgent need for action in the face of a growing health crisis.

According to a recent study by the National Indigenous History Centre, Indigenous women are at a higher risk for violence than non-Indigenous women. This stark reality underscores the importance of gatherings like this one, serving as a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and protection.

As communities come together to raise awareness, events like the one in Splatsin foster hope that the voices of the missing will eventually be heard. For more information on the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, visit the Government of Canada’s report on MMIWG.

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Missing and murdered|indigenous justice|Splatsin