We are in the forefront: Manitoba funds Indigenous organizations on Red Dress Day – Winnipeg [Video]

Manitoba’s government is recognizing Red Dress Day by pledging $350,000 to support five local Indigenous organizations.

The money comes from a $15-million endowment fund to support families of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse people.

The fund, launched last year, is intended to help with initiatives like searching for missing people, funeral expenses, and healing opportunities.

Families minister Nahanni Fontaine said the province is hoping to see the fund continue to grow, with the goal to hit up to $50 million, which would mean annual returns of around $2 million.

“It’s open for every citizen to make a donation, alongside private partnerships,” Fontaine said. “We are actively engaged in looking at those private donations.”

The organizations benefiting from the funding announced Monday represent First Nations, Metis and Inuit populations across Manitoba, and provide direct support to families of missing and murdered.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, Giganawenimaanaanig, Infinity Women’s Secretariat, and Tunngasugit are each receiving some of …