Bonnyville Friendship Centre Event Honours Missing, Murdered, and Exploited Indigenous People

A red glow filled the fieldhouse at the Bonnyville & District Centennial Centre on October 6, setting a sombre and reflective tone for an evening dedicated to honouring Missing, Murdered, and Exploited Indigenous People (MMEIP).

Hosted by the Bonnyville Friendship Centre, the event brought community members together to share stories, remember loved ones, and continue raising awareness about the ongoing violence affecting Indigenous people across Canada.

Crowd gathers at the event to honour MMIW

The evening featured keynote speaker Rachelle Venne, CEO of Esquao, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, who spoke about the strength and resilience of Indigenous women and families.

The Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA) was also in attendance, represented by Chief Financial Officer Deidre Lapointe, Chief Operating Officer Staci Poirier, and Special Initiatives Manager Kody Taylor. Their presence was deeply appreciated by staff and attendees, reflecting the unity and shared commitment among Friendship Centres across the province.

In a statement, the Bonnyville Friendship Centre said the ANFCA’s “unwavering support, dedication, and leadership in delivering impactful initiatives across the province is not only appreciated—it is empowering. The strength of our collective work in reconciliation and justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2-Spirit people is magnified when we stand together.”

Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA)CFO Deidre Lapointe, Chief Operating Officer Staci Poirier, and Special Initiatives Manager Kody Taylor with Janet Gobert Executive Director of the Bonnyville Friendship Centre. *missing from photo; Leon Cardinal Green Initiatives Coordinator

ANFCA continues to lead with integrity and compassion, and the Bonnyville Friendship Centre says it is proud to walk alongside them on this journey of truth, healing, and meaningful change.