Winnipeg police have appointed a new family support and resource advocate for the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

Chief Danny Smyth says former victim services worker Angie Tuesday will work alongside investigators in the missing persons, counter exploitation, homicide and historical homicide units.

“Angie will play an important role within the Winnipeg Police Service,” says Chief Danny Smyth in a release. “She brings a broad range of experience in working with families in distress, and will help us shape our response in a critical area to support loved ones when they need it most.”

He says her appointment fulfils a promise he made a year ago in response to the final report of the national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

Tuesday says she hopes to create a culturally safe and trauma-informed space for families to ask questions and receive information about their loved one's death or disappearance. 

“So many Indigenous people fall victim to violence each year," she says. “Often, families are unsure what supports are available to them and it is very difficult to navigate the legal system, especially when we have experienced trauma.  In my new role, I will build upon my personal and professional experiences of supporting families of Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls to create a culturally-safe and trauma-informed space for families to ask questions, address their concerns, and receive information about their loved one’s death or disappearance.” 

Tuesday says she will be able to use her previous experience to help others in the new role.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to share some of the things that I have learned in supporting families over the years to help inform the work of the Winnipeg Police Service and build those relationships with the community.”

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With files from The Canadian Press