Spring Indigenous Remembrances and Observances
- indigenoustutoring
- May 5
- 2 min read
Content Warning: gendered violence, missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit+ people (MMIWG2S+)
Spring is upon us, and with it, we are once again bringing you information on upcoming Indigenous remembrances and events. Early May holds 3 important days: Red Dress day on May 5th, Bear Witness Day on May 10th, and Moose Hide Campaign Day on May 15th.
Red Dress Day recognizes the ongoing tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit people (MMIWG2S). Everyone can participate by wearing or hanging a red dress or article of clothing in solidarity. Some communities, however, provide events to bring communities together. In B.C., the Metis Society of Fort St. John is hosting a vigil, and in Tsawwassen, there will be a button design competition, among other events. One of the largest remembrances nationally is held in Saskatoon, provided by Wanuskewin. Check with your municipal or provincial government website for other Red Dress Day events being held near you.
Moose Hide Campaign Day also addresses gender-based violence, and calls upon all of us to commit to building a culture of safety and respect towards women and girls, and healthy masculinity for men and boys. Started in B.C. more than a decade ago, the Moose Hide Campaign is a pledge for men and boys to take a stand to oppose violence against women and girls. Make your pledge here, and watch the livestream on May 15th!
Further, on May 10th, is Bear Witness Day, also known as Jordan’s Principle day. At its core, Bear Witness Day commemorates the date of the first successful non-compliance against the government of Canada that the safety and rights of Indigenous children are ensured. Everyone can help by supporting the Spirit Bear Plan, an initiative endorsed unanimously by the Assembly of First Nations. Start showing your support for the rights and support of Canada’s Indigenous Children by checking out this resource.
Author: Lexa, ITMP Blog Coordinator
Images credits: Wix Media
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