YORKTON — The community gathered on May 5 to observe the National Day of Remembrance for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit+ individuals (MMIWG2S+).
Under a sea of red, locals held space for those lost, turning remembrance into a collective effort to educate the next generation and ensure these stories are never forgotten.
Addressing the crowd, Tribal Chief Isabel O’Soup emphasized that the struggle for safety extends beyond any single group.
“It’s a society problem,” she told the audience. “It’s all of our problem.”
O’Soup shared her hope for a future where such vigils are no longer necessary, but until then, she urged everyone to "make safe choices" and "be observant."
Event MC Jamie Desjarlais echoed this sentiment, reminding those in attendance of the ongoing importance of community-led awareness.
Mayor Mitch Kienle thanked the attendees, acknowledging the day as "deeply personal and difficult for many." Challenging the crowd to carry the message home, Kienle said, “In your sphere of influence, be a leader.”
He noted that while the world has changed over the years, Yorkton can lead by example by working together toward a safer environment.
The emotional heart of the ceremony came from Maxine Goforth, mother of 2013 murder victim Kelly Goforth. Maxine recalled her daughter as a beautiful, caring leader. She described the harrowing two-day search through the streets of Regina that ended when police discovered Kelly’s body in a dumpster. Maxine shared her belief that Kelly’s death was not in vain, as the investigation removed a serial killer from the streets.
Today, Maxine is raising Kelly’s son — a journey she continued after the boy's father passed away by suicide.
She told the crowd that parenting must evolve to teach boys to respect women, and asked for continued prayers for all families still missing loved ones.
NDP Leader Carla Beck also joined the gathering, emphasizing that safety is a shared duty.
“We have a responsibility to question our choices, systems, and beliefs,” Beck noted, pointing to the disproportionate violence faced by Indigenous women and girls.
The local tribute aligned with provincial efforts to address systemic violence.
Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Alana Ross characterized the day as a "powerful reminder" of the province's enduring grief. The provincial government highlighted an $800,000 investment toward the MMIWG+ Community Response Fund, which has already approved 25 projects for the 2025-26 period. Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs Eric Schmalz stated the government stands in solidarity with those determined to create change. Further, Justice Minister Tim McLeod announced a $33.5 million investment into interpersonal violence programs for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The application window for the next round of MMIWG+ Community Response grants remains open for projects up to $40,000.
For those in need of immediate emotional support, the national MMIWG+ crisis line is available 24/7 at 1-844-413-6649.
