May 5 is Red Dress Day, also known as the National Day for Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit people (MMIWG2S) and local organizations are showing their support.
Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) is hosting a MMIWG2S event at their division office in Ponoka on May 5 from 1 to 3 p.m.
There will be a short program at the office with some guest speakers, as well as a Red Dress photography display, followed by an awareness walk from the office to the Ponoka Secondary Campus and back.
Student groups are invited to attend the event, spend some time viewing the gallery, to join in the walk, and then enjoy bannock and tea at the division office.
“Honouring and learning more about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit is an important ‘truth’ in truth and reconciliation,” said Erin Tisdale, WCPS First Nations, Metis and Indigenous student success coordinator.
“We all have a part in continuing to learn and advocate. Wolf Creek Public Schools values our relationships with our Indigenous communities and is proud to be a part of the conversation.”
Ermineskin Women’s Shelter
The Ermineskin Women’s Shelter is holding a two-day event in recognition of Red Dress Day 2023.
A MMIWG2 gathering will be held May 4 and 5 at the Ermineskin N.O.K. Building.
On May 4, there will be a gathering from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., followed by an evening banquet from 5 to 8 p.m.
The keynote speaker will be Konwatsitsa: Wi M Meloche.
On May 5, a Red Dress Day Walk will start at 9 a.m. and go until 3 p.m.
Food and beverages will be provided, as well as transportation if needed. There will be door prizes and more.
For more information, call Samson Community Wellness at 780-585-3634, Maskwacis Health Services at 780-585-3830, or Ermineskin Women’s Shelter Society at 780-585-4470.
