OTTAWA – The National Family and Survivors Circle (NFSC) has issued an urgent call to the federal government for permanent financial assistance to safeguard Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals. The organization highlights a disturbing trend where violence against these vulnerable groups spikes during the implementation of large-scale industrial and construction projects across the country.
Hilda Anderson-Pyrz, President of the NFSC, emphasized during a recent press conference that the current cycle of temporary and uncertain funding is hindering their ability to provide consistent support services. She expressed deep concern that the potential termination of existing funds leaves survivors and families in a precarious position, emphasizing that “promises alone” are no longer sufficient to address the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).
The NFSC pointed to several reports indicating that resource extraction sites—often referred to as “man camps”—and major development zones have become hotspots for exploitation. The influx of transient workers, often accompanied by increased drug and alcohol abuse, creates a dangerous environment for local Indigenous communities. These risks are further exacerbated by a chronic lack of adequate housing, reliable transportation, and accessible childcare services in remote areas.
Beyond immediate safety measures, the organization is demanding that the government address the root causes of vulnerability by ensuring better access to stable housing, nutritious food, and quality education. The NFSC argues that a holistic approach is necessary, requiring the federal government to collaborate closely with non-profit organizations and Indigenous-led initiatives to implement long-term protective strategies.
The call for action serves as a reminder of the federal government’s obligations under the National Action Plan to end systemic violence. Advocates insist that without a permanent and robust funding model, the safety of Indigenous women and children will continue to be compromised by the very economic developments intended to bring prosperity to the region.
