First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies · Grade 12 · Truth, Reconciliation, and the Future · 5.º Período

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG)

Students examine the systemic causes and impacts of the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) in Canada. The topic highlights the National Inquiry's findings and Calls for Justice.

TL;DR:This topic addresses the systemic crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people (MMIWG) in Canada. Students examine the findings of the National Inquiry, which concluded that the violence is a result of a 'deliberate, race, identity and gender-based genocide.' The curriculum focuses on the systemic factors, such as poverty, lack of housing, and police bias, that contribute to this crisis.

• Ontario Curriculum Expectations
• I2.1 Analyze the systemic factors contributing to the MMIWG crisis
• I2.2 Evaluate the recommendations of the National Inquiry into MMIWG

About This Topic

This topic addresses the systemic crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people (MMIWG) in Canada. Students examine the findings of the National Inquiry, which concluded that the violence is a result of a 'deliberate, race, identity and gender-based genocide.' The curriculum focuses on the systemic factors, such as poverty, lack of housing, and police bias, that contribute to this crisis.

Students will also learn about the 231 Calls for Justice and the importance of centering the voices of families and survivors. This topic requires a high degree of sensitivity and a focus on systemic change rather than just individual tragedies. This topic comes alive when students can engage in structured reflection and peer support as they analyze the recommendations of the National Inquiry.

Key Questions

1. What are the root causes of the MMIWG crisis?
2. How has the justice system responded to violence against Indigenous women?
3. What are the key recommendations of the National Inquiry?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

The MMIWG crisis is just a 'police problem.'

What to Teach Instead

The crisis is rooted in deep systemic issues like poverty, colonialism, and sexism across all sectors. A 'root cause' mapping activity can help students see the interconnectedness of these factors.

Common Misconception

This issue only affects people in remote areas.

What to Teach Instead

The MMIWG crisis is a national issue that affects urban, rural, and remote communities alike. A gallery walk of data and stories from across Canada can help students see the national scope.

Active Learning Ideas

Inquiry Circle

The 231 Calls for Justice

Groups research one specific area of the Calls for Justice (e.g., Media, Health, or Police) and present why these specific changes are necessary to ensure safety.

60 min·Small Groups

Gallery Walk

The Red Dress Project

Students view images of the Red Dress Project and other art installations, discussing how art can be used to raise awareness and honor the spirits of those lost.

40 min·Whole Class

Think-Pair-Share

Systemic vs. Individual Factors

Students are given a list of factors contributing to the crisis and must categorize them with a partner as 'systemic' or 'individual,' discussing how the system fails to protect Indigenous women.

30 min·Pairs

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the National Inquiry into MMIWG?

It was an independent inquiry established by the Canadian government to investigate the systemic causes of all forms of violence against Indigenous women and girls and to make recommendations for change.

What is the significance of the Red Dress?

The Red Dress has become a powerful symbol of the MMIWG crisis, originally started by artist Jaime Black. The empty red dresses represent the missing and murdered women who should be wearing them.

How can active learning help students understand the MMIWG crisis?

Active learning allows students to move beyond the headlines to understand the systemic nature of the violence. By analyzing the Calls for Justice and examining the role of art in activism, students develop a more profound and empathetic understanding.

What are the 'Calls for Justice'?

These are 231 specific recommendations from the National Inquiry aimed at governments, institutions, and all Canadians to end the genocide and ensure the safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.