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National Chief Perry Bellegarde of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) supports the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls who have expressed their frustration with the national inquiry.
"Clear communication and outreach to family members are essential to rebuild trust and ensure the national inquiry is a success," said Bellegarde.
"Survivors, family members and members of the public rightfully expect transparency on the part of Inquiry Commissioners regarding their plans and timelines. We look forward to increased communication as promised in the Open Letter released by Commissioner Buller on May 19."
When the launch of the National Inquiry was announced, many family members were hopeful that the inquiry process would result in justice for the victims and an opportunity for family members to be heard and to heal.
In recent weeks, family members, First Nations and First Nation leadership have expressed serious concerns about the on-going delays and lack of transparency on the part of the national inquiry.
Bellegarde believes that the inquiry must take a "families first" approach in all its work, based on respect for survivors and family members, and the values of communication and openness. The AFN is guided by the voices of the family members who fought long and hard for the national inquiry to become a reality.
"Survivors, family members, and all Indigenous women and girls have the right to expect better in the protection of their basic human rights to safety and security," said National Chief Bellegarde.