Calls are growing for a search of a Winnipeg-area landfill as rallies demand justice for two missing Indigenous women. The families and supporters of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran are urging the city, federal government, and province to collaborate and find a solution. Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson initially rejected the idea, citing potential exposure to toxic materials, but the pressure is mounting. A federally funded study estimated a three-year search, costing up to $184 million, but experts argue that risks can be mitigated. This issue has sparked solidarity rallies across the country, further highlighting the urgent need for answers.
The families and supporters of two missing Indigenous women, Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran, are intensifying their calls for a search of a Winnipeg-area landfill, while rallies advocating for justice take place nationwide. These families took part in a round dance, led by the Harris and Myran families, at the iconic intersection of Portage Avenue and Main Street in downtown Winnipeg. As the traditional dance unfolded, protesters chanted, Search the landfill! Bring our women home! Red paint was poured onto the pavement, symbolizing the urgency of the situation. Approximately 100 individuals then marched to the legislative building.
This mounting pressure follows Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson’s refusal to support a search of the privately owned Prairies Green Landfill located north of the city. The premier cited concerns about potential toxic material exposure to searchers as the reason for her government’s decision. However, the families of the missing women, along with their supporters, are urging Stefanson to reconsider. They are urging the city, the federal government, and the province to work together to develop a viable solution.
Earlier in the day, family members met with Federal Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree, who was recently appointed to the role. Anandasangaree also held discussions with Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham. The mayor’s office released a statement affirming Gillingham’s call for collaboration between the federal and provincial governments to determine a clear path forward that serves the families’ interests. A statement from the premier’s office was expected to follow later in the day.
A federally funded study estimated that a landfill search could take up to three years and cost as much as $184 million. The study also highlighted potential risks associated with the search, including exposure to hazardous material. Former Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Marc Miller criticized the province for evading responsibility, as landfills fall under its jurisdiction. In response, Stefanson accused Miller of politicizing a tragic situation. However, experts consulted for the study argue that the risks can be mitigated, enabling a safe search to take place.
In a show of solidarity, a rally advocating for the landfill search was held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery, and another is scheduled for Saturday outside the Confederation Building in St. John’s. These rallies aim to bring attention to the pressing need for answers and justice in this case.
It is important to approach this sensitive issue from a balanced perspective, allowing for different opinions and viewpoints. The families of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran, along with their supporters, are seeking justice and closure. At the same time, the government is concerned about potential risks and costs associated with the landfill search. Each side has valid concerns, and finding a resolution that meets the needs of all parties involved is crucial.
As developments unfold, it is essential to maintain communication and collaboration between all levels of government, the families, and the experts involved in the study. By working together, it is possible to navigate the challenges and address the concerns surrounding this search. The families and supporters will continue to rally until their demands for justice and answers are fully addressed.
