NDP MP Leah Gazan Defends Use Of MMIWG2SLGBTQQIA+

Leah Gazan is responding to criticism after her use of the term MMIWG2SLGBTQQIA+ sparked strong reactions online. The Member of Parliament for Winnipeg Centre defended her language and said the backlash is taking attention away from more serious issues.

The controversy began after a video clip from a news conference in Ottawa went viral on social media. In the clip, Gazan referred to what she described as the ongoing violence affecting Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people. The term MMIWG2SLGBTQQIA+ is an expanded acronym that includes missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit individuals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Gazan strongly rejected criticism and online mockery, calling some of the responses offensive and inappropriate. She said her focus remains on addressing systemic racism and violence faced by Indigenous communities across Canada. According to her, the public debate over terminology is distracting from urgent concerns, including support programs and funding for affected communities.

The issue also drew attention from public figures such as Elon Musk and Ted Cruz, who commented on the topic online, further increasing its visibility.

Supporters of Gazan’s position argue that expanding the acronym reflects a more inclusive understanding of those affected by violence. Marion Buller, former chief commissioner of the national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, said the discussion should remain focused on the real issue—violence and lack of sustained support.

The national inquiry, launched in 2016, expanded its scope to include two-spirit and gender-diverse individuals after hearing evidence of widespread violence affecting these groups. Its final report in 2019 described the situation as a form of systemic violence targeting Indigenous people, particularly women and vulnerable communities.

Other Indigenous leaders have also weighed in. Some support the expanded terminology as a way to recognize a broader range of victims, while others prefer shorter forms but respect different ways of expressing the issue.

Gazan emphasized that her priority is to ensure continued attention and funding for programs aimed at prevention and support. She urged Canadians to focus on addressing violence and inequality rather than debating terminology.

The discussion highlights ongoing debates in Canada about language, inclusion, and how best to address serious social issues affecting Indigenous communities.