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Morgan's Warriors: The matriarch on a mission to protect

Melissa Robinson lost her cousin to a serial killer targeting indigenous women. When the police wouldn't search for the remains she led a fightback for her community.

Melissa Robinson lost her cousin to a serial killer targeting indigenous women in the city of Winnipeg, Canada. When she learned that police didn't plan to search for any of the women's remains, she led her community in protests that swept the nation and forced her government's hand.

In 2024 Jeremy Skibicki was given four life sentences for the murders of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois and Ashlee Shingoose. When the verdict was announced, Melissa swore she would do all she could to stop this happening again. She formed a group called Morgan's Warriors, walking the streets where all these women were preyed upon.

Reporter Brandi Morin has been to Winnipeg for Outlook to tell Melissa's story. This is just one chapter in a life that has always been about holding up those around her, often while surviving blow after blow. Melissa was recently made a Pipe Carrier by indigenous elders - a position honouring wisdom and ongoing spiritual leadership - but her journey here has been long.

Melissa's story includes the impact of suicide and violence. But it's not just been about survival, it's the tale of a matriarch finding her power, in her family and her community.

If you'd like to tell us what you think, or share your experiences, please email us at outlook@bbc.com or send a voice note to WhatsApp +44 330 678 2707

Presenter: Asya Fouks
Reporter: Brandi Morin
Producer: Helen Fitzhenry

(Image: Melissa Robinson in front of Brady Landfill at Camp Morgan, Winnipeg, Canada, 27 September 2023. Credit: The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Available now

41 minutes

Last on

Tue 22 Jul 2025 02:06GMT

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  • Mon 21 Jul 2025 11:06GMT
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  • Tue 22 Jul 2025 02:06GMT

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