Report examines access to justice for Native women in Canada

Wednesday, March 5, 2014  

The Canadian Human Rights Commission released its annual report on Tuesday and called for a national inquiry into violence against Native women.

At least 600 Native women have gone missing or have been murdered, the report said. Those cases remain unsolved despite efforts by Native activists and Native leaders to bring attention to the problem.

"The fact remains that there has been little concrete action so far," the report said. "The problem requires real, sustainable solutions that will demand an unprecedented degree of effort and commitment, with federal, provincial, territorial and First Nations governments working together."

In the 2013 Speech From The Throne, Governor General David Johnston acknowledged that Native women are victimized at higher rates than the general population. But Canada's top leaders have declined to call a special inquiry.

Get the Story:
Fear of retaliation stops native women from filing rights complaints, commissioner warns (The Globe and Mail 3/5)

Get the Report:
2013 Annual Report to Parliament | Aboriginal Issues