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Sisters in Spirit vigils today

Photo from NWAC website.

Photo from NWAC website.

The Ottawa Sun reports, “Since the Sisters In Spirit initiative began in 2005, the Native Women’s Association of Canada has documented more than 582 cases of missing or murdered Aboriginal women and girls. This year, at least 110 vigils are taking place across Canada to honour the missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls and to show support for their families.”

The number of vigils has now increased to 163, with vigils outside of Canada taking place in the Seneca Nation, New York; Los Angeles, California; Los Cruces, New Mexico; and in La Paz, Bolivia.

“On Thursday at noon on Parliament Hill, Aboriginal leaders and politicians will give speeches and demand action. A nationwide petition will be sent to Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Prepared by the Native Women’s Association of Canada and endorsed by Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organizations including Amnesty International Canada, the petition calls for a national inquiry into Canada’s missing and murdered Aboriginal women.”

The Council of Canadians has also added its support to the ‘Sisters In Spirit Vigils—A Movement for Social Change’ joint statement and petition that highlights, “Such an inquiry would be a crucial step in implementing a comprehensive and coordinated national action plan.” The statement can be read in full at http://www.nwac.ca/fr/node/1217.

Council activists are encouraged to participate in the vigils taking place today. The complete listing can be found at http://www.nwac.ca/programs/2012-vigil-locations. You can also participate through the Virtual Candlelight Vigil at http://www.october4th.ca.