Red Dress Day in Canada was observed in order to raise awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people in the country. Angela Jaime, Vice-Provost of Indigenous Engagement at the University of Saskatchewan, described it as a day of observance and education. She explained that red is the color that the spirits can see and they hope that those who have been missing or murdered can see it and know to come back to a safe place. Jaime called the issue an “epidemic” and emphasized the need to draw attention to stop it. She mentioned that Indigenous women are 19 times more likely to go missing or be murdered in Saskatchewan than anyone else.
Laura Ross, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Office, highlighted the importance of discussing gender-based violence on Red Dress Day. She emphasized that prevention is key in ending interpersonal violence in the province. Don McMorris, Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs, mentioned that the MMIWG community response fund supported 23 projects last year. He stated that the Government of Saskatchewan is committed to addressing the issues raised in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
Lori Whiteman, who helped tailor the response fund criteria, shared her personal connection to the issue as her mother is a missing woman. She expressed the impact of colonization on today’s issues, including MMIWG, and emphasized the devaluation of lives. Whiteman mentioned the pain that leads to substance abuse or alcoholism. She also highlighted the importance of Red Dress Day in fostering conversations between Indigenous people and the RCMP, moving in the right direction. Whiteman emphasized the resilience of Indigenous communities in the face of adversity.
The significance of having a day like Red Dress Day was underscored by Whiteman as it promotes meaningful conversations and awareness around the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. She mentioned the importance of recognizing the resilience of Indigenous communities and the strength they have shown in enduring hardships. Whiteman also pointed out that the day serves as a step towards healing and reconciliation between Indigenous people and the RCMP. A support line is available for those impacted by missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people, providing immediate emotional assistance to those in need.
In conclusion, Red Dress Day in Canada is a day dedicated to raising awareness of the ongoing issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people in the country. It serves as a platform for education and observance, highlighting the disproportionate rates of violence faced by Indigenous women in Saskatchewan. The government and various organizations are committed to addressing the issue through community response funds and ongoing discussions. The day also fosters conversations between Indigenous communities and law enforcement, promoting healing and resilience. The support line provides immediate assistance to those affected by the issue, emphasizing the need for continued support and resources for the community.
