Red Dress Day - May 3, 2024
Event Overview
On May 3, 2024, the OAC invited all community members in recognizing Red Dress Day, officially commemorated on May 5. This event honours the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) and aims to educate and raise awareness about the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women and girls in Canada.
Purpose of the Event
A gathering to commemorate Red Dress Day and the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), focusing on education, remembrance, and community action.
Event Poster & Agenda
The program included a variety of cultural performances such as a Big Drum Group, Jingle Dress dancers, and Inuit throat singers, as well as speeches from community leaders, including OAC Co-Chairs Mary Daoust and Mikki Adams, and a message from ONWA Executive Director Cora McGuire-Cyrette.
There was also a gifting of the Jingle Dress to Minwaashin Lodge, recognition of healing work in the community, and an acknowledgment of the Indigenous Women’s Safety Table. The event conclude with a Sacred Fire ceremony led by Elders. The OAC welcomed all community members to come together to learn, reflect, and support efforts to end violence against Indigenous women and girls.​
Wellness Resources:
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There is a national, toll-free 24/7 crisis call line providing mental health support for anyone who requires emotional assistance related to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. For assistance, call 1-844-413-6649.
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First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
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Talk4Healing: 1-855-554-4325
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Overview of Indigenous Organizations in Ottawa:
https://www.ottawaaboriginalcoalition.ca/indigenous-ottawa-organizations
Elders
The OAC is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with several Elders from the Ottawa community. During Red Dress Day, three Elders graciously offered opening and closing prayers for the event.
