The Manitoba government has announced the creation of a new $15-million “healing and empowerment” endowment fund to support the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit individuals (MMIWG2S+). Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine made the announcement on Red Dress Day, a day dedicated to remembering and honoring MMIWG2S+. She described the fund as historic and transformative, emphasizing that it will provide direct support to affected families. The fund will also support Indigenous-led frontline organizations and help family members access education, healing, and ceremony. Fontaine expressed her commitment to ensuring that the fund will be a permanent fixture in the province, continuing to offer support long after she leaves office.
The investment in the endowment fund is expected to generate up to $750,000 annually, which will be distributed through application-based grants. Housing and addictions minister Bernadette Smith, who is personally impacted by the issue, highlighted the significant impact the fund will have on the lives of many families. She emphasized the challenges faced by families in accessing funds, resources, and support for searching for missing loved ones or engaging in healing ceremonies. The fund will accept donations, and Fontaine hopes that it will eventually grow to $50 million. She encouraged corporate entities, businesses, and individuals who believe in reconciliation to invest in the endowment fund to support Indigenous families and communities.
Guidelines for eligibility and distribution of funds from the endowment will be developed in partnership with MMIWG2S+ families, the Matriarch Circle, and community partners in the coming months. The project is expected to launch in 2025 and will be managed by the Winnipeg Foundation. Fontaine emphasized the importance of involving families and community partners in the development of the fund to ensure that it meets the needs of those it aims to support. She called on all who believe in reconciliation to take action and invest in the endowment fund to contribute to the healing and empowerment of Indigenous families affected by the MMIWG2S+ crisis.
The endowment fund represents a significant step forward in addressing the ongoing issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit individuals in Manitoba. By providing financial support to affected families, Indigenous-led organizations, and individuals seeking healing and education, the fund aims to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by the crisis. The commitment to ensuring the fund’s longevity and sustainability beyond the current government administration demonstrates a long-term dedication to supporting MMIWG2S+ families. The involvement of MMIWG2S+ families, the Matriarch Circle, and community partners in the development of the fund’s guidelines will help ensure that it meets the specific needs of those it intends to assist.
The announcement of the new endowment fund has been met with enthusiasm and support from government officials, community members, and advocates for Indigenous rights and reconciliation. The fund’s focus on providing direct support to families, funding Indigenous-led organizations, and promoting healing and empowerment reflects a holistic approach to addressing the MMIWG2S+ crisis. The establishment of the fund marks a significant investment in the well-being of Indigenous communities in Manitoba and represents a concrete step towards reconciliation and justice for MMIWG2S+ families. As the fund continues to grow and evolve, it has the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by the ongoing tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit individuals.
