Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS) will host the 20th anniversary Highway of Tears Symposium from April 7 to 10, 2026, at the Prince George Civic Centre, marking two decades since the original 2006 gathering that brought national attention to violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people along Highway 16.
The four-day commemoration will bring together families, Indigenous leaders, advocates, youth, and government representatives to honour lost loved ones, reflect on progress made, and recommit to action grounded in the 33 Recommendations from the original Highway of Tears Symposium 20 years ago.
“This anniversary is about remembering our loved ones and recognizing the leadership of families who have carried this work for generations,” said Mary Teegee-Gray, Chief Administrative Officer at CSFS. “It’s about accountability, and taking an honest look at where we’ve been, where we are now, and where we are going. We have done a lot of work in ensuring the safety and well-being of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people along Highway 16, but there is still a long road ahead. Just one person affected by the discriminatory violence on the Highway of Tears is one too many.”
The symposium will open on April 7 with an Awareness Walk in Remembrance, beginning at the Red Dress Monument at the intersection of Ferry Ave and Highway 16, and leading to the Civic Center, where the walkers will be drummed in. The walk will be led by family members and community advocates and is open to the public.
Over the following days, the symposium will explore “Where We Were, Where We Are, and Where We Are Going,” through keynote addresses, panel discussions, and breakout sessions. Featured speakers include northern, provincial, and national leading voices on the topic.
“This symposium is not just a commemoration, it’s a recommitment to the 33 Recommendations,” said Teegee-Gray. “Creating wellness together means ensuring Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+, and all people along Highway 16, are safe, valued, and protected, for today and all generations to come. Without safety, our people cannot live to their fullest potential.”
