Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Scott Fraser has issued the following statement in support of the National Moose Hide Campaign Gathering in Ottawa:

“Today, Moose Hide Campaign supporters are gathered in our nation’s capital to encourage all men to take a greater role in preventing violence against Indigenous women and children.

“Just as oak trees grow out of acorns, this campaign to end violence against women and children started with a single moose and a single idea. It’s now grown into a campaign that’s taken hold not just in B.C., but across Canada.

“Men are encouraged to take a fasting pledge in support of ending violence against Indigenous women and children. The act of fasting is a sacred ritual that Indigenous peoples and many other cultures and religions have practised for thousands of years. I will be participating in the fast along with my colleagues in solidarity with Indigenous and non-Indigenous men across our country.

“Violence is not something men like to talk about. But by keeping quiet, we also impose silence on the survivors of violence. By keeping quiet, we become part of the problem. By speaking out, by attending events, by wearing our Moose Hide patches, we become part of the solution.

“My sincere thanks to everyone participating in the Moose Hide Campaign, for making a statement that there is no place for violence in our communities. By standing up and speaking out, you are an example of how every one of us can make a difference to the lives of many British Columbians.”