Headline: Heartfelt Tribute: Sagkeeng Woman Honors Memory of Fallen Grand-Niece
In a cozy living room near Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation, Thelma Favel keeps the curtains closed, shielding the gravel road where her grand-niece Tina Fontaine used to happily skip home. Tina’s vibrant spirit lives on in the room filled with cherished family photos, but it’s her absence that weighs heavily on Favel’s heart since Tina’s tragic passing in 2014.
As the 10th anniversary of Tina’s death approaches, Favel’s emotions remain raw, having endured the pain of losing the 15-year-old and witnessing the acquittal of the man accused of killing her. Tina’s story has not only touched Favel’s life but has also become a symbol of the ongoing violence against Indigenous women and girls.
With a heavy heart but unwavering determination, Favel, alongside her friend Marilyn Courchene, is organizing a feast and walk in Sagkeeng to honor all missing and murdered Indigenous people, a gesture to keep their memories alive and demand justice for their untimely deaths.
Amidst her battle with cancer, Favel pens a heartfelt letter to Tina, a poignant farewell expressing love and longing. It’s a bittersweet moment as she grapples with the need to let go while ensuring that Tina’s legacy remains etched in their hearts forever.
The community of Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation, plagued by a series of tragedies, is working towards healing and empowerment. Oginaakaan (Chief) E. J. Fontaine is leading efforts to establish a family law that aims to protect and nurture children while maintaining their cultural connections.
Tina’s legacy has sparked meaningful change, prompting the government to address the systemic issues highlighted by her case. Manitoba is taking steps towards supporting MMIWG2S+ families and enhancing child welfare services, a significant shift that underscores Tina’s enduring impact.
Despite the challenges and unresolved questions surrounding Tina’s death, Favel finds solace in honoring her grand-niece’s memory and embracing the hope that the community’s collective efforts will bring about positive change. As she prepares to draw back the curtains of her living room, Favel’s message to Tina resonates with love, loss, and everlasting remembrance.
The tale of Tina Fontaine is not just a somber narrative of injustice but a testament to resilience, unity, and the enduring quest for justice in Indigenous communities across

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