Honouring Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw MMIWG2S+

On a day filled with emotion, community, and cultural strength, T̓sasała Cultural Group came together to raise awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+), and to support Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw families affected by this ongoing crisis. Held on the traditional territories of the ‘Na̱mg̱is people, this gathering brought people together in a spirit of unity, healing, and remembrance.

The event was rooted in traditional ceremony, where we honoured the lives of those who have been taken from us far too soon. Elders, dancers, singers, and community members stood in solidarity with grieving families, creating a sacred space to acknowledge the deep pain and loss that continues to echo through our communities. The ceremony was a time to uplift the spirits of those we’ve lost, and to offer comfort and strength to the families left behind.

In keeping with our teachings, we shared food with all who attended. A communal meal is not just about nourishment; it’s an act of love, care, and community resilience. 

A powerful and emotional part of the day was giving families a chance to speak. Those who have been directly impacted by the loss of loved ones stood courageously before the community and shared their stories. Their voices carried not only grief, but also hope — a call for justice, awareness, and collective action. These stories reminded us that the crisis of MMIWG2S+ is not statistics — it is real people, real families, and real pain.

We also took time to directly honour the women, girls, and 2-Spirit people whose lives were taken. Through song, and ceremony, we called their names into the circle and made sure they were not forgotten. Their spirits were with us — present in every drumbeat, every tear, and every embrace.

This gathering was more than an event. It was a reaffirmation of who we are as a people — strong, resilient, and united in the face of injustice T̓sasała Cultural Group is committed to continuing this work, supporting families, and raising awareness until every Indigenous woman, girl, and 2-Spirit person is safe, seen, and honoured.

We raise our hands to all who came, all who shared, and all who continue to carry this important work forward. May the love and strength of our ancestors guide us always.

We’d also like to offer a special thank you to Georgina Isaac-Speck for all of her continued support and guidance — your work uplifts and strengthens our community. We also extend deep gratitude to the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres for their support in helping us continue our cultural and community-driven work.

G̱ilakas’la 

T̓sasała Cultural Group