Honouring Red Dress Day: A Day of Remembrance and Solidarity
We humbly honour Red Dress Day on Sunday, May 5th, as a solemn occasion to remember Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). This day holds profound significance within Indigenous communities across Turtle Island as we pay tribute to the lives lost to violence and injustice.
Red Dress Day, inspired by Jaime Black’s REDress Project, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing crisis of violence faced by Indigenous women, children, and members of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. Since its inception in 2010, this day has been a call to action for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, highlighting the urgent need to address systemic issues and ensure justice for victims and their families.
At the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB), we recognize that this is a heavy reality that many Indigenous communities continue to face. We stand in solidarity with the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this issue. We encourage those who struggle with this profound loss to seek support through our services and hotlines.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to our Wiichihiiwaauwin (Mental Health) Helpline. Available 24/7, with Cree speakers and Elders available upon request. Call 1-833-632-4357 for assistance.
Let us remember that in moments of darkness, we find strength in unity and support. Together, as a community, we stand with those who suffer, offering compassion, understanding, and solidarity. By raising awareness, advocating for justice, and extending a helping hand, we affirm our commitment to healing and empowerment. May this Red Dress Day serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility, particularly for advocates and allies, to create a world where all Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit People are valued, cherished, and protected.
Show your sign of solidarity and share the #mmiwg2s or #RedDressDay.
