“I am proud to declare Oct. 4, 2021, Sisters in Spirit Day in Alberta. On this day, we offer our deepest respect to the many Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Canada who are missing or have been murdered.

“It is also a time to honour their families and loved ones, and to support them in speaking out about this violence.   

“Your resilience, dedication and commitment to your loved ones is evident throughout Alberta, and the government grieves with you. We have heard your calls for action and we are working to address this heartbreaking situation.

“This is why we established Alberta’s Joint Working Group on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which includes Indigenous community members with front-line experience and government members of the legislative assembly.

“Our dedication to the safety of Indigenous women and girls continues through a five-year agreement with the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women and through the work of Alberta’s Human Trafficking Task Force.

“I thank the tireless organizers of Sisters in Spirit events across Alberta, who dedicate their time to keeping missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people top of mind. You inspire us to continue this important work.

“I urge all Albertans to take a moment today to reflect, take part safely in a local or virtual event and join us as we work toward a province where Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are valued, respected and safe to lead lives filled with hope and opportunity.”