Support line for those affected by missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people:
For immediate emotional assistance, call 1-866-414-8111. You can also access long-term health support services, such as mental health counselling, community-based emotional support, cultural services, and some travel costs to see Elders and traditional healers.
September 8, 2023 - (Flat Bay-No'kmaq Village, Newfoundland and Labrador) - Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and Flat Bay Band-No'kmaq Village
Today, Chief Joanne Miles and Chief Executive Officer Liz LaSaga from the Flat Bay Band-No'kmaq Village, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains, in the name of Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced $2.4 million in funding, provided through the Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program for the construction of the new Mary Webb's Gathering Place.
Mary Francis Webb of Flat Bay, NL, was a midwife and traditional healer and highly recognized and respected in Newfoundland. Along with living a traditional lifestyle and healing so many people in her community and abroad, she spoke four languages, including Mi'kmaw. The new wellness centre, named in her honour, will provide a safe space for members, including women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, to gather and connect with their history through community events, cultural amenities and programs. It will also be a culturally suitable space to honour healing, growth and cultural restoration.
Investing in cultural spaces is crucial to addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. It also responds to Call for Justice 2.3, which calls upon all governments to prioritize safe and meaningful access to culture and languages for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people to restore, reclaim and revitalize their identities.
Through the Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program, the Government of Canada supports construction and revitalization projects, including long houses, women's lodges, powwow grounds, heritage parks, and cultural centres, as well as facilities to support cultural ceremonies and teachings.
