Aly Bear says implementation of calls for justice overdue | Face to Face
APTN News・2 minutes read
Ali Bear, the third vice chief of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, is advocating for urgent action to address the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, emphasizing the need for improved safety and justice in Indigenous communities. She highlights systemic discrimination in alert systems, the lack of progress on the 231 Calls to Justice, and the necessity for greater representation and support for Indigenous women in leadership roles.
Insights
- Ali Bear, as the third vice chief of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, emphasizes the urgent need to address the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in Canada, which she describes as a cultural genocide. She highlights the ongoing safety concerns Indigenous women face in their communities due to systemic violence and the lack of action on the 231 Calls to Justice from the MMIWG inquiry, illustrating the broader implications of this issue as a national emergency that requires immediate governmental response.
- Bear's advocacy extends beyond immediate concerns; she also underscores the importance of representation and support for Indigenous women in leadership roles. She reflects on her own journey as a lawyer and political leader, aiming to inspire youth and single parents in education while addressing the unique challenges they face. Her efforts include the adoption of the Declaration on Indigenous Women and Girls by the Saskatchewan government, which signifies progress in recognizing the rights and needs of Indigenous women within the political landscape.
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Recent questions
What is cultural genocide?
Cultural genocide refers to the systematic destruction of a group's cultural heritage, identity, and social structures. It involves actions aimed at erasing the cultural practices, languages, and traditions of a particular community, often through policies or violence. This term is particularly relevant in discussions about Indigenous peoples, where historical and ongoing practices have led to significant loss of culture and identity. The recognition of cultural genocide is crucial for understanding the broader implications of colonialism and the need for reparative justice. It highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the rights of communities to maintain their identities in the face of systemic oppression.
How can I support missing Indigenous women?
Supporting missing Indigenous women involves raising awareness about the crisis and advocating for systemic changes to address the violence they face. Individuals can educate themselves and others about the issues surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG), participate in events like Red Dress Day, and support organizations that work towards justice and healing for affected families. Additionally, advocating for the implementation of the 231 Calls to Justice from the MMIWG inquiry is essential. Engaging with local Indigenous communities and listening to their needs can also foster meaningful support and solidarity. Ultimately, it requires a collective effort to challenge the systemic issues that contribute to this crisis.
What are the challenges women face in politics?
Women in politics often encounter a range of challenges, including sexism, racism, and ageism, which can hinder their ability to be taken seriously in leadership roles. These barriers can manifest in various ways, such as biased media coverage, lack of support from political institutions, and societal expectations that place additional burdens on women, particularly those from marginalized communities. Women may also face scrutiny regarding their family responsibilities, which can affect their political careers. Overcoming these challenges requires not only personal resilience but also systemic changes to create a more equitable political landscape that supports and values women's contributions.
What is the significance of representation in leadership?
Representation in leadership is crucial for ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are included in decision-making processes. When leaders reflect the demographics of the communities they serve, it fosters trust and encourages broader participation in governance. Representation can lead to more equitable policies and initiatives that address the unique needs of underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous women. It also serves as an inspiration for younger generations, showing them that they can aspire to leadership roles. The presence of diverse leaders can challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity, ultimately contributing to a more just and equitable society.
What is the Red Dress Day?
Red Dress Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG). It serves as a powerful symbol of remembrance and solidarity, where participants wear red dresses to honor the lives lost and to draw attention to the ongoing violence faced by Indigenous women. The day highlights the urgent need for action and justice, as well as the importance of community support in addressing these issues. By participating in Red Dress Day, individuals contribute to a larger movement advocating for systemic change and the recognition of the rights and dignity of Indigenous women.
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Summary
00:00
Indigenous Women's Crisis Demands Urgent Action
- Ali Bear is the third vice chief of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and a lawyer from White Cap Dakota First Nation, focusing on education, sport, and women's issues.
- Red Dress Day honors missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, highlighting a crisis in Canada that Bear emphasizes as a cultural genocide needing urgent attention.
- Bear questioned the Prime Minister about the ongoing crisis, stressing that Indigenous women feel unsafe in their communities due to entrenched colonial and lateral violence.
- The lack of implementation of the 231 Calls to Justice from the MMIWG inquiry is evident in rising violence against Indigenous women, particularly in Winnipeg.
- The House of Commons passed a motion declaring the deaths of Indigenous women a national emergency, calling for a new public alert system for missing persons.
- Bear criticized the Amber Alert system for being discriminatory, noting that Indigenous children often do not meet the criteria for alerts compared to non-Indigenous children.
- At the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, Bear highlighted that the crisis of missing Indigenous women is a global human rights issue, not just a Canadian one.
- Bear, the first lawyer from her community, was inspired to pursue law after reading about Patricia Montour, a Mohawk lawyer, during her post-secondary education.
- She aims to establish a scholarship for single parents in post-secondary education, recognizing the unique challenges they face in pursuing higher education.
- Bear's public advocacy includes wearing a red handprint on her face to raise awareness about missing Indigenous women, which received mixed reactions but ultimately aimed to create change.
15:51
Empowering Indigenous Women in Leadership Roles
- The speaker emphasizes the importance of representation, encouraging youth to pursue their dreams, exemplified by her own journey to becoming the youngest and third woman vice chief of FSIN.
- After being called to the bar in 2021, she decided to run for vice chief of FSIN to advocate for issues she felt constrained from addressing as a lawyer.
- The speaker highlights challenges faced by women in politics, including racism, sexism, and ageism, noting that women often must work harder to be taken seriously in leadership roles.
- She advocates for increased representation of Indigenous women in leadership, stressing the need for community support for mothers balancing leadership and family responsibilities.
- A significant achievement during her term was the adoption of the Declaration on Indigenous Women and Girls by the Saskatchewan government, leading to discussions on resources for initiatives like the Red Eagle Lodge.
