Photo:AP
In Regina, Saskatchewan, Michelle Bear, a mother from the Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation, has been on a hunger strike for two weeks outside the city landfill. She is bravely staying there until police and city officials finally agree to search the site for her daughter, Richele Bear. Michelle says her daughter deserves a proper home and not to be treated like garbage.
Background: Richele’s Disappearance
Richele went missing in fall 2013. In 2016, Clayton Bo Eichler, a convicted serial killer, admitted to murdering Richele and another young woman, Kelly Goforth. Kelly’s body was found wrapped inside a hockey bag in an alley, but Richele’s body was never found.
Michelle says she was told by police that Eichler likely buried her daughter in the Regina landfill—a method he used before—but police now say there’s no evidence to confirm her remains are there. They continue to follow leads and stay in contact with Michelle about updates .
A Mother’s Determination
On June 17, Michelle began her fast. Over the past two weeks, she’s stayed at the landfill in a teepee, even sleeping there, to insist officials act. She says she’ll remain there "until I can’t carry on", hoping the city and police prioritize this heartfelt request.
Support has grown. Family, friends, and members of the MMIW (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women) movement have joined her, sharing stories about Richele and supporting Michelle’s plea .
Her Message to Officials
Michelle’s message is simple yet powerful:
“My daughter’s not garbage—she needs a sacred burial place.”
“It’s all just words, until they start digging.”
She says she will keep going until the landfill is searched, or she physically cannot continue .
Police & City Response
The Regina Police Service (RPS) says it has a long-standing relationship with Michelle. They promise to keep communication open and continue following credible leads in Richele’s case.
The City of Regina is following the police's lead regarding the landfill search. They acknowledge Michelle’s fast but have not yet agreed to begin digging .
Why This Is Important
Respect and dignity: Michelle’s hunger strike emphasizes that every person’s life and remains deserve respect and care—even after death.
Indigenous justice: Many families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women are still waiting for answers. Michelle’s action highlights an ongoing need for accountability and healing.
Community and media support: As support grows, the broader public is learning about Richele’s story and similar cases—putting pressure on authorities.
What Comes Next
Michelle will remain at the landfill until serious action is taken.
Supporters will likely continue to join and share her message.
The RPS could begin a landfill investigation if they receive new, reliable evidence or notice rising public demand.
The City of Regina may formally respond or request specialized resources to conduct a landfill search.
Quebec’s iconic Winter Carnival expects record crowds this year as more Canadians travel domesticall
China’s highest court has overturned the death sentence of Canadian Robert Lloyd Schellenberg, signa
A Calgary man says his home has been repeatedly targeted in four attacks over six days, leaving him
Mexican authorities have found bodies and remains in Sinaloa during the search for 10 missing employ
