Lakelands Public Health is marking Red Dress Day, the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples, observed annually on May 5.
The day is intended to honour those who have been lost and raise awareness about the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit people in Canada.
According to the National Inquiry, Indigenous women and girls are significantly more likely to be victims of violence compared to non Indigenous women.
The red dress has become a powerful symbol of remembrance, originating from artist Jamie Black’s REDress Project in 2010. Each dress represents a life lost and a story that continues to impact families and communities.
Lakelands Public Health says the day is also an opportunity to reflect on the broader systemic issues contributing to this violence, including colonialism, systemic racism, intergenerational trauma, and poverty.
Displays of red dresses are being set up in public health offices and shared online to help raise awareness locally.
Officials say the observance is not only about remembrance, but also about advocating for justice, safety, and meaningful change.
Residents are encouraged to learn more by visiting www.mmiwg-ffada.ca, which outlines the findings and Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry.
Additional resources and storytelling can be found through platforms such as APTN and CBC, highlighting the experiences of families and communities.
Lakelands Public Health also reminds residents that engaging with this topic can be difficult, and encourages anyone needing support to access mental health resources at LakelandsPH.ca/MentalHealth.
Officials say Red Dress Day is a call to stand in solidarity and work toward a safer future for all.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
