Indigenous Observances: May 2026

May is right around the corner, and it's an important month for remembering and honouring MMIWG2S+. Content warning: MMIWG2S+

On May 5th we once again observe Red Dress Day: a day of remembrance, recognition, and call-to-action for missing and murdered indigenous women and girls, and Indigenous members of the 2S/LGBTQQIA community. Red dresses (or similar articles of clothing) are displayed in public, often art installations, to show that the violence against Indigenous peoples is still a major problem that often goes ignored by the justice system. Red Dress Day is also beginning to have a greater presence in social media. You can check with your local Indigenous community centre, library, or post-secondary institution to see what Red Dress Day observances are happening in your area.

On May 14th, Moose Hide Campaign Day is a time to not only recognize violence against Indigenous Women and others across the gender spectrum, but to celebrate the importance they have in Indigenous culture. Bringing an end to gender-based violence against Indigenous and First Peoples is as much about preserving and healing Indigenous cultures as a whole. Cultural Survival has a wealth of information you can look into to learn more. And please tune into the celebration live stream from Ontario.

For Indigenous children, there is Bear Witness Day, which as of February 5th this year, is now recognized nationwide as a call to action for Jordan’s Principle, a cornerstone of public funding for parents of Indigenous children to access services and education. This page can answer questions about coverage, and help you get access to services through Jordan’s Principle. If you’re interested in finding ways to observe or celebrate Bear Witness Day, this website has several suggestions, including hosting a teddy bear tea party, or reading Spirit Bear and Children Make History with your kids or students.

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Author: Lexa Winters, ITMP Blog Coordinator