In recognition of the national day for awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, a Red Dress Day conference is being held in Maskwacis on May 8.
The conference is being hosted by the Ermineskin Women’s Shelter Society, Maskwacis Health Services and Ermineskin Brighter Futures.
The event, being held at the Neyaskweyahk Omimaw Kamik (NOK) building from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., will feature speaker Konwatsitsawi Meloche.
Meloche is a “passionate presenter who resides between the Kahnawa:ke reservation in Quebec and New Mexico and was born for the Bear Clan,” states her online bio.
She is a high school teacher and has a BA and an MA in educational studies from Concordia University.
A frequent speaker at seminars, Meloche presents on First Nation’s history, educational issues, small business management and economic development.
During her research of anti-Inuit and Indigenous government policies, including residential schools. She realized specific detrimental effects as well as solutions and continues to present her findings to First Nations across North America.
According to committee member Nola Littlechild, the tentative agenda for the event will include registration from 9 to 10 a.m., followed by a blessing and invocation by elders.
The opening of the conference will include a drum song and a welcome by the Ermineskin Women’s Shelter Society’s (EWSS) president the Four Nations leadership, EWSS director Sandra Ermineskin and Noreen Omeasoo from Maskwacis Counselling Services.
Meloche is to give her address, “Staying Safe,” at about 10:30 a.m.
Lunch will be provided by Bob Ronnie Catering, during which there will be an open mic for storytelling.
Meloche will speak again at 1 p.m., followed by a break, and the presentation of door prizes and a raffle at 2:30 p.m.
Closing remarks are set for 4 p.m.
During the event, there will be two teepees set up by the building for people to relax or meet with a psychologist who will be onsite to provide support.
Red Dress Day is held annually on May 5 to raise awareness and give tribute to MMIWG2S.
Those experiencing distress can reach out to the Indigenous-centred Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310.