On May 5th, over 90 people gathered at Kinsmen Park in Strathmore to mark Red Dress Day, the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Children, and Two‑Spirited people (MMIWG2S).
The event was a collaboration between RVWLIP, Strathmore FCSS, Kickstand, True North, and Siksika Support Services.
The evening began with a blessing. Two Siksika women then shared heartfelt speeches about their families’ losses. Their words were a powerful reminder of the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women and girls.
After the speeches, attendees watched a drumming and jingle dress dance demonstration. The jingle dress dance is a healing dance, often used to pray for those who are sick or hurting.
The group then walked around the park while an honour song was sung. It was a quiet, respectful way to remember those who have been lost.
The evening ended with resource sharing from local organizations and a free community BBQ. The food gave everyone a chance to connect and reflect.
Red Dress Day is about remembering, but also about taking action. A big shoutout to everyone who came out and to all the partner organizations who made this meaningful evening possible.
