Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls

More than 1,200 Indigenous women and girls were reported missing or murdered in Canada between 1980 and 2012—a number widely believed to be underreported.

This national crisis, often symbolized by the red dress and memorialized along the Highway of Tears, has devastated families and communities across Turtle Island. The violence is not only ongoing—it is systemic. And too often, the stories are forgotten.

In January 2014, one of those stories became deeply personal to Nichole Yamchuk

justice-for-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-and-girls

A hand painted sign by Nichole Yamchuk, 2014.

In Loving Memory of Courtney Breanna Johnstone

In late January 2014, a deeply distressing event occurred when Nichole Yamchuk's ex-sister-in-law went missing. Tragically, just a few days later in early February 2014, it was revealed that she had been killed, and her body discarded.

As Nichole became aware that February 14th was designated as the National Missing and Murdered Indigenous March, observed in solidarity across major cities on Turtle Island (Canada), she felt compelled to take action. After discovering that no one was organizing such a march in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

We walk for Courtney. We remember her. We honour her.

#AlwaysRemember #CourtneyBreannaJohnstone #MMIW

With a mere three days to prepare, Nichole made the courageous decision to host Saskatoon's inaugural MMIW March.

The event was meticulously arranged, with police escorts ensuring safety, media outlets informed and in attendance, and speakers representing all levels, including family members, city officials, and government representatives.

Remarkably, over 100 individuals from various surrounding communities participated in the march.

Saskatoon’s First MMIW March

Lasting Contribution

Nichole's dedication to this cause continued for three years, during which she successfully organized the event, even including a Round Dance in 2016.

Eventually, she entrusted a local nonprofit organization with the responsibility of leading the event and overseeing the community's inquiry into the over 1,200 missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in Canada.

Her efforts have left a profound impact on the community, raising awareness and advocating for justice for those affected by this tragic issue.

What the Media Captured

o Hundreds march in remembrance of missing and murdered

o Saskatoon march honours missing and murdered indigenous women

o Hundreds gather in Saskatoon to remember indigenous victims of violence

o March planned for missing indigenous women in Saskatoon

Every name represents a life, a story, and a community forever changed

“We Remember Them” is a tribute space hosted on the Advocate Fundraising website to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people across Turtle Island.

Submissions shared through this form may be respectfully featured on our public webpage

Share Your Story

We invite you to contribute with care, honesty, and honour. If you have any concerns or wish for a name to be removed in the future, please contact us directly