Sisters in Spirit Day

WHEREAS Each year community members from across the Peace River area come to pay their respects to those who have disappeared or been murdered. This year the memorial has a whole new significance, following years of persistent lobbying the Government of Canada has launched an inquiry into missing and murdered indigenous women in Canada. This is a nation-wide epidemic to which Peace River is not immune.

The violence experienced by Aboriginal Women and Girls in Canada is a national tragedy. The disappearance and murder of our Aboriginal sisters is felt nationwide, with countless First Nations, Inuit, Metis families and communities grappling with the loss of a loved one, and struggling to find  answers. We are speaking out, as individuals and organizations, because we believe this violence should be of urgent concern to everyone in Canada.  More than that, this concern must lead to action—action to  ensure that the rights and safety of Aboriginal sisters, daughters, mothers and grandmothers are respected and protected.

Therefore Tom Tarpey, Mayor of Peace River, has declared October 4, 2016 as Sisters in Spirit day, in Peace River, joining more than 90 other communities across Canada.

Please take time to join us for one of the events taking place today:

3:30PM – Viewing of MMIW Display at Peace River Museum
4:30PM – Gathering in front of Peace River Museum
5:00PM – March across Heart River Bridge through downtown area to Riverfront Park
5:30PM – Outdoor Memorial Service at Riverfront Park with the Families of Missing & Murdered Testimony
7:00PM – Fellowship & Light Refreshments– St. James Anglican Church