The Permanent Peoples’ Tribunal (PPT) is set to conduct a crucial investigation into Canada’s involvement in the tragic deaths and disappearances of Indigenous children in Montreal during May 2026.
Organized by the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal, this opinion tribunal aims to shed light on whether Canada is culpable for genocide and crimes against humanity, supported by a wealth of over 2,000 pieces of evidence.
Kwetiio, a member of the Mohawk Mothers or Kanien’keha:ka Ka’nistensera, emphasized the importance of this process for healing, stating, “We are the ones leading this and our sole desire is for healing.”
Recalling the harrowing stories of abuse she heard growing up, Kwetiio highlighted a particularly poignant anecdote about a traumatized man in her community who was forever changed after being sent to “the hospital” and returned as a mere shell of himself, a constant reminder of the community’s collective trauma.
Canadian Senator and respected Indigenous leader Michèle Audette expressed her optimism for the tribunal, emphasizing its significance in amplifying diverse voices and narratives that have long been overlooked.
Audette noted the importance of these testimonies in shaping governmental policies and societal consciousness, emphasizing the power of grassroots initiatives like the PPT in creating meaningful change.
Established in 1979 in Bologna, Italy, PPT was founded to denounce dictatorships in Latin America and has since conducted over 50 sessions globally, with a rich history of advocating for human rights.
The upcoming tribunal hearings, scheduled from May 25 to 29, 2026 at the daphne art centre, will feature a profound exploration of testimonies, legal discourse, and deliberations culminating in the Tribunal’s final verdict.