Join us on Wednesday, April 1st, as the AVA Webinar Series presents Engaging Community on MMIWG+ Prevention in Highway of Tears Country, featuring Dr. Jacqueline Holler and Sara Heembrock from the University of Northern British Columbia.
Wednesday, April 1st, 2026
12 – 1:30pm MST
The term “Highway of Tears” is globally synonymous with the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and gender minorities (MMIWG+), but the region has also been the site of powerful advocacy and engagement for change. The Highway of Tears Symposium of 2006 spotlighted the issue and culminated in 33 recommendations for change in Northern BC. This webinar presents results of ongoing engagement and research on MMIWG+ prevention among Carrier Sekani Family Services, the Northern Feminist Institute for Research and Evaluation, and communities and agencies in North-Central British Columbia. Since 2023, the current research partnership has conducted research and engaged community members along the Highway of Tears to assess both progress on prevention and ongoing gaps. This webinar introduces the research project and its findings in advance of the 20th Anniversary Highway of Tears Symposium to be held in Prince George, BC in April 2026.
About the Speakers
Dr. Jacqueline Holler is Professor of Women’s & Gender Studies and History at the University of Northern British Columbia and a member of the leadership team at the Northern Feminist Institute for Research and Evaluation.
Sara Heembrock is a Master of Education (Counselling) student at the University of Northern British Columbia with experience working alongside Indigenous communities across student services, housing, holistic wellness, and social services in Northern British Columbia. Her work is grounded in Indigenous-led, trauma-informed, and community-based approaches, with a focus on advocacy, systems change, and strengthening access to culturally responsive supports. She is committed to bridging research, policy, and practice to advance safety, accountability, and more connected communities.