In a heartwarming tribute on Saturday night, family members and community members gathered to celebrate the memory of Tina Fontaine, just a week shy of the 10-year mark since her tragic discovery in the Red River of Winnipeg. The emotional event took place near the Alexander Docks, where her brother, Elroy Fontaine, shared touching memories of his beloved sister.
“Tina was a sweet, sweet girl,” Elroy expressed, his voice filled with admiration. “She had a very big heart and taught me invaluable life lessons about love, forgiveness, and resilience. I will always cherish the time we spent together during visits – she was the only sister who treated me like a younger sibling.”
The heartfelt gathering saw red ribbons adorning the fence, a red dress mural shimmering on the pavement, and a cedar tree planted, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Tina. Drummers filled the air with soul-stirring beats, while attendees lit candles, honoring the memory of the late teenager.
Reflecting on the outpouring of support, Elroy struggled to find words to express his gratitude. “It means more than I could ever express,” he revealed, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. Tina, tragically lost at the tender age of 15, continues to be a beacon of remembrance and a catalyst for change.
Tina’s untimely demise sparked a national awakening, prompting the launch of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. However, despite initial momentum, a recent CBC analysis revealed that only a fraction of the proposed calls for justice have been implemented, shining a light on the persistent challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
As the community stands united in remembrance, there is a renewed commitment to seek justice and advocate for vulnerable youth like Tina. “Even if the whole world forgets her, I’m never going to forget her,” Elroy powerfully affirmed, ensuring that Tina’s light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all those who knew her.
The anniversary vigil not only serves as a poignant tribute to Tina’s memory but also underscores the unwavering determination to create a more just and equitable society for all.
“Tina was a sweet, sweet girl,” Elroy expressed, his voice filled with admiration. “She had a very big heart and taught me invaluable life lessons about love, forgiveness, and resilience. I will always cherish the time we spent together during visits – she was the only sister who treated me like a younger sibling.”
The heartfelt gathering saw red ribbons adorning the fence, a red dress mural shimmering on the pavement, and a cedar tree planted, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Tina. Drummers filled the air with soul-stirring beats, while attendees lit candles, honoring the memory of the late teenager.
Reflecting on the outpouring of support, Elroy struggled to find words to express his gratitude. “It means more than I could ever express,” he revealed, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. Tina, tragically lost at the tender age of 15, continues to be a beacon of remembrance and a catalyst for change.
Tina’s untimely demise sparked a national awakening, prompting the launch of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. However, despite initial momentum, a recent CBC analysis revealed that only a fraction of the proposed calls for justice have been implemented, shining a light on the persistent challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
As the community stands united in remembrance, there is a renewed commitment to seek justice and advocate for vulnerable youth like Tina. “Even if the whole world forgets her, I’m never going to forget her,” Elroy powerfully affirmed, ensuring that Tina’s light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all those who knew her.
The anniversary vigil not only serves as a poignant tribute to Tina’s memory but also underscores the unwavering determination to create a more just and equitable society for all.
