‘Home Fires Burning’ for Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls closing its one-year camp

By John Fox

Sue Martin’s one year quest to bring awareness to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is coming to a close on Victoria island in Ottawa.

Martin now views the experience with great insight, pride and healing and is prepared to move on.

“I wont be returning to Victoria Island at any time soon,” says Martin.   “I have my family to return to whom I sacrificed to do this.”

As for us as a community, we honour you Sue Martin and your small group of  “Ogitchii daws-helpers” for your bravery, your fortitude, your straight-forward honesty and your unlimited compassion in your love of our women, girls and men in this country.

Your vision is our vision too – that is to do away with lateral violence or any form of violence within our communities and to bring identity and culture back to our young people.   I believe it is a huge undertaking but you have an entire nation of people to back you.

Although, Martin’s quest hasn’t been without vain, finances or support as she prepares to dismantle a tough journey on the issue.   Martin had to battle her own inner demons of loss of a most cherished and missed daughter, a community divided and was unsupported with two death threats made against her while on her quest.   In spite of all that, Martin was vigilant and her support was our ceremonies, her vision and compassionate understanding supporters made this quest possible.