On Sunday, May 5, Coast Mountains School District recognizes both Red Dress Day and the National Day of Awareness for Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls & Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). This day serves as a reminder to honour the lives of those who have been lost and support those who are still searching for their loved ones.
This event was originally held on May 5, 2010 and continues annually to honour the memories of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people across Canada. The day was borne out of the ongoing art project called The REDress Project by Jaime Black, a Métis multidisciplinary artist based in Winnipeg. The red dresses act as a visual reminder of the more than 1,000 Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people who are missing or who have been murdered, and those whose lives have been forever changed by such violence.
As we wear red in solidarity, let us also take the time to learn about the historical and ongoing violence that Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit people face. We must listen to and amplify the voices of Indigenous communities as they advocate for justice and healing.
Let us use our platforms to raise awareness and demand action to address this issue. Together, we can create a safer and more just future for all.