The MMIWG’s national inquiry holds hearings in Montreal

They came from across the province to speak publicly about those who are close and dear to them. After five days of listening to 82 family members and survivors bear witness, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls wrapped its Montreal hearings with an Elder’s song and the words of its four commissioners on March 16.

Established in September 2016, the national inquiry has launched a culturally specific research plan and framework that supports Indigenous worldviews and values while it visits communities to hear testimonials from family members as well as survivors. The testimonials are either public and made in the presence of three commissioners, or gathered in a statement without the presence of a commissioner, or done in private.

“This is a story about kindness,” said Chief Commissioner Marion Buller at the closing ceremony, in reference to the eagle feathers that were donated to the inquiry by community members, and which were offered to each witness who came forward with their stories. “Thank you for sharing in public… Your truth will take Canada from darkness to lightness.”

Not all were able to share with the public, however.

Johnny Wylde, the father of Sindy Ruperthouse, who went missing in Val-d’Or in 2014, gave a private testimonial at the Montreal inquiry because he is under legal obligation to not disturb the ongoing investigation into his daughter’s disappearance.

“We were disappointed,” Wylde told the Nation. “I’m disappointed that the public didn’t hear our story.”

Wylde said his family has been living with Sindy’s disappearance for four years.

“This is our reality. We are preparing for another search this spring when the snow melts. People call us and tell us things but they won’t talk to the police. We have done our research. We don’t have helicopters. We don’t have 200 policemen. We have volunteers from Pikogan, Val-d’Or and even Montreal.”

According to Wylde, the next step in his family’s investigation into his daughter’s disappearance includes fundraising that will allow for provisions for search-and-rescue teams.

“I am just as determined to listen to witnesses,” said commissioner Michèle Audette. “There is still time for hearings to take place. It’s important to speak one’s truth, and it involves everyone. But it can still take form as of now. We don’t have to wait until the end [of the inquiry] to take initiative.”

“We are here because things have happened that should never have happened,” said Commissioner Qajaq Robinson, as she spoke about the two-year extension request for the MMIWG inquiry. “It’s about creating space. Everybody needs to be heard. That is what is required for reconciliation. Truth. Justice.”