Episode Eight: The Crisis of Human Trafficking and MMIWG2S With Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak

Episode Eight: The Crisis of Human Trafficking and MMIWG2S with Cindy Woodhouse NepinakIn this episode of Stolen Voices, host Nicole Robertson sits down with Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak for an important conversation about the growing crisis of human trafficking and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit+ People (MMIWG2S) in First Nations communities across Canada.Drawing on her leadership at the national level, National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak discusses the urgent need to fully implement the 231 Calls for Justice, the ongoing links between colonialism, child welfare, poverty, housing insecurity, and human trafficking. She speaks on why Indigenous-led solutions must be at the centre of prevention, healing, and community safety. She also shares her perspective on the risks associated with major resource development projects, the importance of long-term investments in First Nations communities, strengthening First Nations policing, and ensuring survivors and families are meaningfully included in decision-making.Throughout the conversation, Nicole and National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak explore what real reconciliation looks like, why governments must move beyond promises to action, and how stronger Indigenous leadership, culture, and self-determination are essential to protecting future generations.This episode is a powerful discussion about leadership, accountability, and hope—and a reminder that ending human trafficking and the MMIWG2S crisis requires sustained action, community-driven solutions, and a commitment to ensuring every First Nations voice is heard.