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Assembly of First Nations honours Rinelle Harper who calls for national inquiry

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 09 Dec, 2014 10:38 AM

WINNIPEG — A teenage girl who was viciously assaulted and left for dead last month has added her voice to the call for a national inquiry into missing and murdered aboriginal women.

"I am Rinelle Harper and I am from the Garden Hill First Nation," the 16-year-old began tentatively as she stood in front of the Assembly of First Nations on Tuesday.

The assembly was honouring her with a drumming ceremony at the start of a three-day meeting in Winnipeg.

"I am here to talk about an end to violence against young (aboriginal) women," she said in her brief remarks.

"As a survivor, I respectfully challenge you all to call for a national inquiry into missing and murdered aboriginal women."

The teen thanked everyone for the support she has received since she was attacked — twice — and left for dead near the Assiniboine River in Winnipeg last month.

She somehow survived and has been called a hero by some for escaping the fate of hundreds of other missing and murdered aboriginal women.

The girl, her parents and sister standing behind her, was visibly nervous as she spoke. She talked about looking forward to returning to school and seeing her friends.

"I ask that everyone here remember a few simple words: love, kindness, respect and forgiveness."

During the ceremony, Rinelle was presented with an eagle feather representing continued strength and courage.

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