MKO demanding apology from mayoral candidate following comments made at forum

The Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) is calling for an apology from a Winnipeg mayoral candidate following comments made during a forum on Treaty One territory Thursday evening.

Grand Chief Garrison Settee of the MKO released a statement Friday morning saying the mayoral candidate made comments regarding gender-based violence in Winnipeg and the role Indigenous men supposedly play in it.

“I condemn the ignorant, uninformed remarks by a Winnipeg mayoral candidate regarding violence against Indigenous women. This candidate is placing the onus on Indigenous men when asked about safety for women in Winnipeg. He stated Indigenous men need to come to the table to address the issue—clearly, this man has no ties to First Nations citizens or communities,” said Grand Chief Settee.

Settee went on to explain if the candidate had a connection to the Indigenous community, they’d know about the on-going work being done by the MKO’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Liaison Unit and the community as a whole is doing to address gender-based violence.

“Every year, we host events in Winnipeg, including vigils for our missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Our organization continues to promote and recognize the importance of Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

“I have urged leaders at all levels to work diligently to address the ongoing issue of gender-based violence and its deadly impacts on First Nations citizens across the Province of Manitoba. The future leader of the City of Winnipeg should have strong ties and a comprehensive understanding of the issues First Nations women, girls, Two Spirit, and gender-diverse people are facing in this city. It is essential that the incoming Mayor has a strong relationship with our community members and leadership, as Winnipeg has the largest urban Indigenous population in Canada.”

Settee and the MKO did not say which mayoral candidate made the comments but said, “this is very concerning. I urge the mayoral candidate to apologize to the First Nations citizens across the province for your disparaging comments and reconsider your decision to seek the position of Mayor.”