Steinbach MLA and Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen, minister responsible for Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), announced that as part of its ongoing commitment to reconciliation and support of MMIWG2S issues, the Manitoba government is unveiling designs for two new specialty licence plates.
“The tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people is felt deeply across Manitoba and all of Canada,” said Goertzen. “Our government is committed to acts of reconciliation, like these specialty licence plates, and this initiative will allow Manitobans to show their solidarity with the families and communities living with the ongoing grief of losing loved ones.”
“MPI is pleased to produce Manitoba’s newest specialty licence plates in support of this important issue,” said Ward Keith, board chair, MPI. “We are proud to be part of the Manitoba government’s commitment toward reconciliation and welcome the opportunity to help raise awareness and funding for MMIWG2S victims and their families.”
The licence plates are being introduced following the passage of Bill 204, which received royal assent on May 30. The bill was introduced by Bernadette Smith (MLA for Point Douglas) and received unanimous support from all parties.
The two designs feature a red dress and a red handprint, symbols that were chosen as the result of community consultations that Smith conducted for and with MMIWG2S family members. Feedback received during consultations concluded these symbols represent resistance to violence committed against women and gender-diverse people within the community. Both designs are set on a red gradient background and include ‘MMIWG2S’ in bold, red letters.
The cost of each set of plates will be $70, of which $30 will be directed to a charity in support of MMIWG2S families. Consultations are ongoing with individuals and organizations that represent the interests of families who have lost loved ones to identify which charity will receive funds, noted the minister.
The specialty plates will be available for purchase this fall through Autopac agents across Manitoba, the minister added.
