FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 8, 2024
The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs (Assembly) extends condolences to Chief Shelley Sabattis and the community of Welamukotuk (Oromocto) First Nation, New Brunswick following the tragic death the Chief’s sister, Sheri Sabattis on April 27.
“Our hearts are broken for Chief Sabattis, her family and the community of Welamukotuk,” said Chief Deborah Robinson, Lead of the Children, Youth, Families and Gender Diversity portfolio for the Assembly. “Receiving news about another MMIWG impacts all of us, and it is important that we stand in solidary with family and friends when one of our own has been taken from us.”
Sunday, May 5th marked the National Day of Awareness for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and gender diverse people– also known as Red Dress Day. Across Canada, people wore red, gathered and marched to advocate, and more importantly remember all those impacted by gender-based violence and the continued genocide of Indigenous women.
“The numbers of MMIWG are staggering,” continued Chief Robinson. “We are constantly advocating for better for our people, and that must include within the justice system and for all those who are no longer here to tell their story.
Federal and Provincial governments must work with Indigenous leaders and communities to meaningfully implement the 231 Calls to Justice of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People. There is a constitutional obligation to ensure the safety and wellbeing of First Nations communities and their members.
The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs condemns all acts violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and advocate for justice for the Sabattis family and community of Welamukotuk.