The National Inquiry holds Regional Advisory Meetings in Wendake, Quebec

WENDAKE, QC, Jan. 19, 2017 /CNW/ - The National Inquiry held regional advisory meetings in Wendake, Quebec, the week of January 16^th, 2017. The Commissioners consulted with Elders and Indigenous organizations. A key purpose of these meetings was to consult with groups of regional experts to assist in further planning the National Inquiry's testimony-gathering events that will begin in the spring. Similar meetings will be held in other locations across Canada.

Please note that the meetings in Wendake were not a testimony-gathering event. Rather, it was a consultation event that will assist the National Inquiry in creating a trauma-informed process that includes Indigenous languages and protocols in its work and testimony gathering. It will take discussions with many Elders, families, those who have experienced violence, organizations and experts across the country to make this goal a reality. The National Inquiry will hold several similar meetings across Turtle Island.

Chief Commissioner Buller said, "The Wendake meetings were important for planning the National Inquiry's process. We met with people who understand the concerns and challenges faced by the Indigenous communities in the region. They have advised us accordingly. We will continue to gather advice about our process from groups across Canada."

To learn more about the National Inquiry, visit: www.mmiwg-ffada.ca

And check out our new Frequently Asked Questions page! It gives answers to range of queries the National Inquiry has received from grassroots people interested in our process.

SOURCE Commission of Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Girls

Michael Hutchinson, Director of Communications, [email protected], 204-292-7036; Michèle Moreau, Executive Director, [email protected], 604-363-8936