Montreal March Highlights Crisis of Missing Indigenous Women

MONTREAL – A march took place in downtown Montreal on October 4, 2025, as local residents gathered to honor the memory of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Among the participants was Shirley Pien, a health navigator at an Indigenous-led clinic, who expressed her concern over the increasing number of women from the community who have disappeared. “In the last few months, there’s women we used to see regularly that we don’t see anymore. Nobody knows where they are,” she remarked, reflecting the urgent need for action on this pressing issue.

The march coincided with a national day of action held across Canada, emphasizing the alarming overrepresentation of Indigenous women in cases of violence and disappearance. This event highlights ongoing frustrations regarding governmental inaction on the recommendations from a 2019 national inquiry, which identified the crisis as a result of “persistent and deliberate” human rights violations. The inquiry produced 231 calls to justice, many directed at government bodies and social service providers, yet organizers argue that few have been implemented.

Increased Vulnerability and Trafficking Concerns

Simone Page, who leads a shelter for families searching for their missing loved ones, spoke to the alarming issue of sex trafficking among vulnerable Indigenous women in Montreal. She noted that many women frequenting areas like Cabot Square are often targeted by traffickers who disguise their intentions. “Those that frequent the area are routinely targeted by traffickers that conceal their intentions by approaching them romantically or as a friend,” Page explained.

She emphasized the criticality of police response times when women go missing, noting that searches often do not begin until 24 to 48 hours after a report is filed. “Those first 24 to 48 hours are essential, especially when it comes to trafficking,” Page added, highlighting the need for immediate action in such situations.

Another participant, Native Nam, an artist from Kitigan Zibi in Quebec, raised concerns about the underreporting of missing Indigenous women. “Activist groups suggest the true numbers could be much more,” she stated. “These are not just numbers. These are our daughters, mothers, aunties, and cousins; they are us.”

Government Response and Ongoing Commitments

In a statement released on the same day, the federal ministry for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs reiterated its commitment to addressing this national crisis. Ministers Rebecca Alty, Mandy Gull-Masty, Rebecca Chartrand, and Rechie Valdez emphasized that the most significant efforts are being driven by Indigenous communities. The statement highlighted funding initiatives aimed at improving community safety, including an $8.5 million investment to create transitional housing units for Métis women and children in St. Andrews, Manitoba.

The government has also facilitated gatherings involving Indigenous leaders and representatives from federal, provincial, and territorial levels to discuss strategies for combatting this ongoing crisis. A national action plan to end gender-based violence has been established, alongside the appointment of a chief adviser to tackle human trafficking in Canada.

As the march concluded, participants expressed hope that their voices would inspire change and greater accountability. The ongoing efforts reflect a community committed to raising awareness and advocating for justice in the face of a significant social issue. The need for urgent action remains paramount as the search for solutions continues.