In Canada, Indigenous women and girls are targeted for violence more than any other group. Abigail Andrews, Gloria Moody, Jamie McGuire... the list goes on and on. These are just some of the indigenous women who were victims of murder, violence, or abduction. The lack of social services in their communities make these women subject to danger in their everyday lives. For example, 54% of indigenous women reported severe forms of family violence. Furthermore, systemic racism against indigenous peoples will turn seemingly safe places into danger zones for these women. In the medical field, racial bias and mistreatment of indigenous women is a prominent and concerning issue. This was true for Joyce Echaquan, a woman who died in a Quebec hospital after her pain and cries for help were ignored by staff. The RCMP covers 75% of Canada's geography and serves 630 indigenous communities. But there are no standard policies for tracking violence against the indigenous population. 

While it is improving, the media coverage and data necessary to help these women is insufficient. This is why, more than ever, it is so important to educate ourselves and talk about violence against indigenous women. There are many Canadian charities and organizations serving and supporting Indigenous women such as True North Aid. In addition, the Native Women's Shelter of Montreal is facing an increasing demand to provide new and diverse programming. But your financial contributions are extremely helpful to these organizations and are very appreciated.