CW: Graphic Violence, Gun Violence, Suicide, Death

Episode Description:

In this episode, Fallon Farinacci details the murder of both of her parents, subsequent suicide of her brother, and how she turned this tragedy into being an advocate for Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women

Topics Discussed:

(0:00) Introductions: Fallon tells us about her traditional name, White Thunder Woman, how she received it and what it means.

(4:12) Fallon describes the small community where she grew up until she was 9. She explains how her parent’s friend became increasingly obsessed with her mother, and began making threats against her. Fallon’s parents did file reports with the police, and a restraining order was placed.

(10:47) The Night her Parents were Murdered: Fallon’s brother opened the door one night, and their night of terror began as they were held hostage for 8 hours. Fallon describes the horrific details of what happened on the night that left both of her parents dead. She also describes the police misconduct, and how some things could have been handled differently, and could even have led to a different outcome.

(29:48) The Dying Wish: Fallon’s mother was allowed to write her wishes for where her children would go after her death. Fallon and her brothers went to live with their Aunt in Ontario, but she desperately wanted to go back to Manitoba. When she was 14 years old, Fallon was allowed to move back to Manitoba. She would later return to Ontario to attend University, only to discover that all of the life insurance money that her parents had left her had been spent by her Aunt.

Fallon and her brother never received any type of post-traumatic support. Tragically, Fallon would also lose her older brother to suicide, and discusses the impact that had on her, and how she decided to keep moving forward.

(39:10) MMIW: Fallon became involved with the National Inquiry for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in 2017. In 2019 Fallon joined The National Family Advisory Circle, where she worked closely with other MMIWG family members. Fallon opened a Gofundme page to celebrate indigenous resilience, proceeds will go to

(48:11) Indigenous Issues: We discuss the importance of talking about issues such as MMIWG, Residential Schools, and the 60s Scoop, and the lack of education around Indigenous Issues. Fallon tells us what she wishes people could take away from her story, and how she is using her voice to make a difference.

Resources:

Fallon’s GoFundMe

National Inquiry Into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women

Finding Cleo Podcast

About Fallon Farinacci:

Fallon Farinacci is a proud Red River Metis. She is a survivor and advocate for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples. In 2017 Fallon testified in the National Inquiry for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, sharing her story of loss and trauma. In 2019 Fallon joined The National Family Advisory Circle, where she worked closely with other MMIWG family members and the Commissioners for the National Inquiry. Over the past couple of years, Fallon has sat on several advisory boards, dedicating her time to bringing awareness to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women across Turtle Island. Find her on Instagram @fallonfarinacciWant to be a guest on the show? Reach out.Instagram