Today, May 5, is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirited (MMIWG2S) and Red Dress Day, where we raise awareness of and remember the thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls across North America. 

“Wearing a red dress on May 5th shows support for the families and communities mourning the loss of their sisters, mothers, aunts and daughters – the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls,” said Board Chair Esther Eckert. “It is a solemn day to honor the lives of those who have been lost. In Black Gold, we are taking this opportunity to reflect upon and to recommit to doing our part in creating a future where all Indigenous women and girls can live free from violence and discrimination.”

“Today we wear red not just to make a statement, but to honor the resilience and strength of all missing and murdered indigenous women,” said Vice Chair Angie Charpentier. “The red dresses are powerful symbols, and it breaks my heart to know that there are families who have experienced close loved ones go missing or murdered, without any kind of recourse.”

“Today we learn from and continue to support those living with trauma, both in our communities and in their own homes,” said Ward 1 Trustee Michelle Martin. “We remember these women, girls and two-spirit individuals who have been disappeared and murdered; whose stories are ignored, responded to with silence and outright disrespect; who were misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all; who were sexually assaulted; whose families did not know where they were; whose cases went unnoticed or even worse.”

“Throughout the year, the Black Gold Board of Trustees has worked to continually strengthen our foundational knowledge, and strive towards supporting increased knowledge and understanding across the Division,” said Ward 2 Trustee Devonna Klaassen. “The living legacy of violence against Indigenous women and children is tragic, and needs to change. As leaders and as allies, we continue to learn, foster opportunities for others to learn, and counter negative stereotypes.”

“Let’s take care of one another; no more stolen sisters.” #MMIWG