DWC 100 Women: Bernadette Smith, Drag the Red

Bernaadette Smith is a sister, a mother, and a warrior in the truest sense. Hailing from the Cree and Métis nations, Bernadette’s life has been deeply intertwined with the struggles faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada. She grew up understanding the harsh realities of systemic racism, poverty, and the many challenges that Indigenous communities have endured for generations. But it was the disappearance of her own sister, Claudette Osborne, in 2008 that transformed Bernadette’s life.

Claudette’s disappearance was a tragedy that exposed the stark reality faced by many Indigenous families across Canada. The pain of losing a loved one, compounded by the lack of action from authorities and the pervasive indifference of society, fueled Bernadette’s resolve to fight for justice—not just for her sister, but for all families who have been touched by similar tragedies.

Bernadette co-founded the Manitoba Coalition of Families of Missing and Murdered Women in Manitoba, a grassroots organization that provides support to families who are searching for their loved ones. Through her work with the Coalition, Bernadette has become a lifeline for countless families who have been left to navigate the complexities of the justice system on their own.

One of her most significant achievements is the creation of the Drag the Red initiative, a community-led effort that involves volunteers searching the Red River in Winnipeg for the remains of missing individuals. This initiative was born out of frustration with the authorities' failure to thoroughly investigate cases of missing Indigenous women and girls. Bernadette’s relentless advocacy has brought national attention to the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) in Canada, a crisis that has been largely ignored by mainstream society for far too long.

Bernadette has also been a driving force behind numerous awareness campaigns, vigils, and marches, ensuring that the stories of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls are not forgotten. She has taken her fight to the halls of power, becoming a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Manitoba, where she continues to advocate for systemic changes that address the root causes of violence against Indigenous women.

The emotional toll of losing her sister, coupled with the daily realities of advocating for marginalized communities, is a burden that few can fully comprehend. She has faced resistance from those in power, who are often more interested in maintaining the status quo than in addressing the deep-seated issues that plague Indigenous communities. But Bernadette’s spirit is unbreakable. She draws strength from her culture, her community, and the memory of her sister, who remains at the heart of everything she does.

Bernadette has faced criticism, both from those who oppose her activism and from within her own community. Yet, she remains steadfast, knowing that the work she does is vital for the future of Indigenous women and girls.

 She has not only brought attention to the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls but has also created tangible change in how these cases are addressed. Her work has inspired a new generation of Indigenous advocates who are continuing the fight for justice, equality, and recognition.