A Red Dress Day Walk is being held on May 5th, to bring awareness and honour the memories of missing and murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people across Canada.

It serves as a day to remember, honour, and advocate for justice for these individuals and their families. The day is observed by wearing red, participating in community events, and learning more about the issue. Red dresses are hung from windows and trees to represent the pain and loss felt by loved ones and survivors.

The day will begin at the Civic Centre with a Knowledge Sharing Event to focus on safety, domestic violence, human trafficking and risk factors, and current supports in the community. Those in the community can also sign up for a session on “Training Active Bystanders”, where tools will be taught for responsible intervention.

Minister Responsible for First Nations Métis and Northern Affairs Eric Schmalz says, “On Red Dress Day, we stand alongside the families and communities impacted by interpersonal violence against Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ people. Our government is working toward a safer future for all by providing funding opportunities to organizations and grassroots initiatives that empower awareness and safety in Indigenous communities.”

To enhance safety and prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit+ individuals funding is provided to support initiatives.

The Ministry of Government Relations provides grant funding of $800,000 through the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls+ (MMIWG+) Community Response Fund, with $400,000 provided by Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE).

Beginning at 4 pm, the walk will take about one hour, starting and ending at the Wicanhpi Duta/Red Star Woman fancy-dancer statue in front of the Saskatoon Police Service building. There will be golf cart transportation for those who need.