5 Films and TV Series Associated with MMIWG2S+

Trigger Warning: In commemoration of #MMIWG2S+(missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people) which is recognized as the National Day of Awareness and Action on May 5 (also referred to as "Red Dress Day"), we share some important on-screen stories. They each provide profound insight into the significance of this ongoing systemic issue, that has injustices circulated continuously within its vicious cycle, from historical oppression to problematic law enforcement- that must end now.

An estimated number of over 4,000 Indigenous folks in Canada are a result of the murdered and missing cases, with Indigenous women facing violence at a rate of 3.5 times more than non-Indigenous women. 

In taking a stand against this we provide series and documentaries of real-life Indigenous experiences, resources and actionable steps to work towards this inflated number to become dramatically reduced, putting an emphasis on advocating for safety and non-violence. 

Highway of Tears

Produced by member of Gitxsan First Nation and Director of Carrier Sekani Family Services, Mary Teegee (with director, Matt Smiley) this ‘90s documentary focuses on the disappearances of Indigenous women on the "Highway of Tears” (725-kilometre corridor of Highway 16 between Prince George and Prince Rupert in British Columbia, Canada).

Where to Watch: VHX TV

Murder in Big Horn

Official Selection 2023 at Sundance festival, this three-part series focuses on the Bighorn County reservation area in Montana, US. Luella Brien' a Native American journalist born and brought up in the area delves deeper into the disappearances that police have been neglectful of; in a bid to spread awareness of the issue. The most recent case of Selena Shelley Faye Not Afraid (2020) was widely covered by the media in part because of Brien’s efforts.

Where to Watch: Paramount+ or via Paramount+ on AppleTV+ (7 days free trial is available)

Taken

A series documented by APTN (Aboriginal Peoples Television Network) that investigates murdered and missing women across Canada since as far back as the '80s.

Where to Watch: CBC Gem

Finding Dawn 

Acclaimed Métis filmmaker Christine Welsh heads this documentary which focuses on Indigenous women across B.C, particularly Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and the infamous “Highway of Tears” (Highway 16 between Prince George and Prince Rupert in B.C) where many have disappeared or been found deceased.

Where to Watch: NFB Canada

Alaska Daily 

Starring Hilary Swank and Secwépemc actress and director, Grace Dove for Season 1 of this powerful drama series there are 10 episodes that follow an American journalist (played by Swank) who investigates crimes against Indigenous women and girls in Alaska, U.S.

How to Watch: CTV.CA

Resources

• To learn more about the facts and statistics around murdered and missing Indigenous women, read Native Women’s Association of Canada report here.
• Join online and in-person workshops at Moose Hide Campaign on May 11, 2023 (Lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Territory - Victoria, BC) which advocates for ending violence against women, girls and two spirit people. Click here for general registration.
• And to get an official, free Moose Hide pin to show your support, click here. 

For assistance and if you need someone to talk to, there is a toll-free support line at: 1-844-413-6649