Grant to support Indigenous women

By Theodora MacLeod - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on August 4, 2023.

In an effort to support Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit plus (2S+) people, the Government of Alberta has announced a new grant for organizations and communities that address violence, issues of economic security, and safety. The fund is another move in the plan to advance reconciliation and uplift the Indigenous community in Alberta.
Throughout their lives, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit women face violence at substantially higher rates than non-Indigenous women in Canada. Indigenous women in Alberta are seven times more likely to be murdered, and more than six in 10 (63 per cent) have been physically or sexually assaulted at some point since the age of 15.
“Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people deserve to live in safety and security, free from violence. We are working towards supporting Indigenous-led initiatives that can advance reconciliation and make a meaningful difference in their lives,” says Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson.
The fund will award a total of $4 million in grants a year, with recipients being eligible for up to $200,000.
The money will be awarded to organizations that provide immediate support to women in need of healing, as well as those that work to prevent violence, and take on the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people.
Grants will be split into three categories, those that increase safety, those that address issues of violence, and those aiming to increase economic security.
Out of all the provinces and territories, in 2021 Alberta saw alarming rates of homicide of Indigenous people, second only to Saskatchewan.
The Community Support Fund will support initiatives that contribute to a future where Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people are respected and able to live in safe and secure environments.
Rachelle Venne, Chair of the Premier’s Council on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women states “As the Premier’s Council advances collaborative work with the Government of Alberta, this dedicated ongoing funding is important for Indigenous-led projects to support Indigenous women, girls and 2S+peoples. I commend the province for taking the initiative on this grant program.”
Applications will close on Oct. 6, and recipients are required to be partnered with Indigenous communities, organizations and governments working on initiatives that coincide with the actions outlined in the pathways section of the Alberta MMIWG Roadmap.

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