May 5th, also known as Red Dress Day in Canada is one day that we can all honour all MMIWG

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is a rampant issue that has been affecting Indigenous women for many years. The mandate of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, however, is not limited to only Indigenous women and girls but all women and girls subjected to violence. They also include Two-spirit people and all who are part of the LGBTQ2+ community.

May 5th, also known as Red Dress Day in Canada is one day that we can all honour all MMIWG as well as their families and friends who have been subjected to losing their family in such circumstances. When I consider that these women could be my sisters, my aunts, and my daughters, I am challenged more to work toward raising awareness. I have a young daughter who is just two years old and I think to myself; what can I do that will show more than just the words I speak? How can I be an example of not ignoring what others around me are experiencing?

So, one might ask how can I be an ally? By raising awareness of the issues that Indigenous women face, through social media and even in conversation with those around us. Words often have an unseen impact on the people we communicate with. Being intentional with engaging in tough conversation can empower not only yourself but also those around us to understand the impacts of history and that through unity the future can look different for those who have a higher potential of becoming victims.

So, I challenge you all today. Look for organisations in the city or town you live in. Engage with the people who are knowledgeable on the topic. Engage with the families who are victims. Ask questions. Asking questions removes all assumptions and opens doors for learning and guidance. If ever you are witness to any form of violence, speak up! It may be terrifying, but it could save a life. Most importantly, let us all work toward speaking against these atrocities more than one day a year.

The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls website (https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/media/) offers information on the efforts that have been made to investigate missing cases and maybe a good starting point for learning.