Calls for UN Investigation into Violence Against Indigenous Women in Canada Intensify

Calls for UN Investigation into Violence Against Indigenous Women in Canada

A Growing Concern

The issue of violence against Indigenous women and girls in Canada has reached a critical point, with increasing calls for the United Nations to take action. On August 5, 2025, J.R. Howell, a human rights expert and attorney, filed a formal complaint with the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This filing highlights severe systemic mistreatment that has persisted for far too long.

Howell’s complaint illustrates a pattern of disregard shown by Canadian law enforcement agencies towards the lives and safety of Indigenous women. It particularly addresses the unacceptable failure to conduct thorough searches for the remains of four Indigenous women murdered by a serial killer. These tragic cases involve Ashlee Shingoose, Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and Rebecca Contois, whose families have suffered profound loss and trauma due to the lack of accountability and justice.

Adding to this tragedy is the unresolved case of Tanya Nepinak, missing for over a decade, whose remains have yet to be found. The inaction from authorities has raised serious concerns about systemic racism and gender-based violence faced by Indigenous communities.

A Deep-seated Issue

During the proceedings, Howell mentioned the deeply troubling foundations of state-sponsored racism, which manifest in various forms such as gender-based violence and the forced separation of children from their families. According to Howell, these actions collectively amount to ongoing cultural genocide.

"Indigenous women and girls are still being trafficked, abused, and murdered—with impunity," Howell asserted. This complaint not only sheds light on the dire situation but also calls for immediate international scrutiny into the matter. Howell referenced data showing alarming rates of abduction, murder, and trafficking among Indigenous women and girls, indicating a major failure in the responsibility of law enforcement to investigate these vital issues.

Furthermore, the historical and continued separation of Indigenous children from their families—through biased child welfare systems—serves to strip these communities of their fundamental human rights. Howell contended that Canada's legal framework has consistently fallen short in protecting Indigenous peoples' rights and dignity. Thus, he argues, it is imperative for international intervention.

Calls for Action

To address the multitude of systemic abuses that Indigenous peoples are facing, Howell has put forth several recommendations for the UN to consider:
1. Launch an Urgent Investigation: The UN Special Rapporteur should conduct a thorough investigation into the Canadian government's role in these systemic issues affecting Indigenous peoples.
2. Host Listening Sessions: Engaging directly with victims and families in First Nations territories is crucial to understand their experiences and needs better.
3. Encourage International Oversight: There is a pressing need for continued international oversight and reporting regarding the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG).

Advocacy Against Institutional Harm

J.R. Howell’s legal practice has a robust focus on human rights and social justice across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. His dedication to these causes extends beyond the courtroom, as he is also producing a documentary that amplifies the voices of Indigenous survivors and families affected by these tragic events. The documentary aims to highlight first-person accounts and bring about greater awareness of the injustices faced by Indigenous Peoples.

Having previously testified in front of the California State Assembly regarding state surveillance practices, Howell’s advocacy work emphasizes combatting institutional harm and enhancing accountability for marginalized communities. His recent endeavors seek not only to shed light on the injustices faced by Indigenous women in Canada but also to mobilize worldwide action to rectify these human rights violations.

As the calls for an investigation grow louder, the hope is that the UN responds swiftly and appropriately to address these grave issues affecting Indigenous populations in Canada and ensure their rights are protected and respected.