BU event honours MMIWG2S

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 07/05/2024 (903 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Brandon University’s Kavanagh Courtyard was the site of solemn remembrance and hopeful advocacy on Monday as more than 30 community members gathered to commemorate the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People.

Co-organizer Rachel Robertson said the event was to honour those impacted by colonial violence.

“Our event serves as a solemn tribute to those who have suffered, reminding us of the ongoing need for empathy and solidarity,” Robertson told the Sun.

“We have students within the university who have suffered losses due to colonial violence, and we must acknowledge and respect their experiences.”

Gary Caribou, a first-year sociology student at BU, shared an emotional story of loss following the tragic murder of his sister, Tessa Perry, due to domestic violence.

“Tessa was more than a sister to me — she hailed from northern Manitoba, and although we primarily grew up in Thompson, her family welcomed me as one of their own,” Caribou told the Sun. “With four children of her own — two boys and two girls — she epitomized resilience and love.”

Perry’s life, he said, was cut short on May 28, 2022, in a harrowing act of violence perpetrated by her partner, who was sentenced to life in prison.

He described his sister’s vibrant personality and recalled her kindness, beauty and unwavering work ethic.

“She possessed a bright spirit and a knack for teasing,” he said. “But beyond her playful nature, she was a pillar of support, always ready to lend a helping hand.”

Reflecting on the prevalence of violence against Indigenous women, Caribou said there is an urgent need for greater awareness and accountability, adding it’s time to confront the issue head-on and ensure justice prevails.

“By shedding light on these atrocities, we take a crucial step towards reconciliation and healing.”

Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett reflected on the significance of the event as a continuation of efforts to raise awareness about injustices, particularly concerning missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

“As a city, we must acknowledge the existence of these injustices and commit ourselves to rectify them,” Fawcett told the Sun. “Through collaboration with community partners and organizations, we strive to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all residents.”

Expressing optimism for the future, Fawcett said by standing together and addressing these issues, “we can pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for Brandon.”

The turnout at the rally, Robertson said, was encouraging, drawing participants from across the community.

“The attendance demonstrated the collective commitment to addressing these issues and supporting those affected by them.”

The Manitoba government announced its intention Sunday to support MMIWG2S families with a $15-million endowment fund to go toward the creation of a grant program launching next year.

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

» X: @AbiolaOdutola