Courage. That is the best way to describe Rinelle Harper.
Rinelle is a victim of the violence that so many Indigenous women have faced across Canada. She was violently attacked, sexually assaulted and left to die.
I have had the opportunity to meet with Rinelle and her family personally. I have been so inspired by the way in which they have dealt with this incredible ordeal.
This week I had the opportunity to attend the Assembly of First Nations gathering in Winnipeg that chose a new National chief.
In a courageous move Rinelle spoke to the Chiefs and spoke to the nation as her sister and parents stood nearby.
Her message was clear. “I am Rinelle Harper and I am from the Garden Hill First Nation I am here to talk about an end to violence against young [Aboriginal] women.
“I ask that everyone here remembers a few simple words — love, kindness, respect and forgiveness.
“As a survivor, I respectfully challenge you all to call for a national inquiry into missing and murdered indigenous women.”
It is time we as Canadians listened to Rinelle’s call and the call of so many others.
It is time for a national inquiry into missing and murdered Aboriginal women.
