May 5 marks the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit people (MMIWG2S). Also known as Red Dress Day, this is a day to honour and remember the thousands of Indigenous women and girls who have gone missing or been murdered in Canada and calls attention to the fight for justice.  

Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people are at a significantly higher rate of risk of experiencing violence. According to statistics from the Assembly of First Nations, Indigenous women and girls are five times more likely to experience violence than any other population in Canada. Although Indigenous people only make up 4.3% of Canada’s population, 16 percent of female homicide victims and 11 percent of missing women in Canada are Indigenous. These statistics highlight the need for action and protection for those who have been disproportionately affected by violence and systemic discrimination in Canada. 

Resources for the Trent Community: 

• National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls 
• Video: The REDress Project, an art installation by Métis artist Jaime Black 
• Assembly of First Nations 
• Native Women’s Association: MMIWG Our Calls, Our Actions 
• Government of Canada: MMIWG2S Action plan, programs and initiatives