Red Dress Day 2023
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Today (May 5) is Red Dress Day – The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in Canada. Join us as we recognize, honour, and increase the visibility of our missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit People.
"Recognizing Red Dress Day is important because it raises awareness of the ongoing violence, discrimination, and systemic injustices that Indigenous women and girls face in Canada and other countries," said Mayor Megan Hanson. "This day also honors the memory of those who have been lost or taken from their families and communities."
Mayor Hanson proclaimed May 8, 2023 as Red Dress Day in the Town of Sylvan Lake. The official proclomation came earlier this month at the April 24 Regular Meeting of Council.
"The red dress has become a symbol of the MMIWG movement because it represents the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls who are no longer able to wear them. Wearing a red dress or displaying one in public places can show that the Town stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities. It helps to support the urgent need for action to address the root causes of this crisis."
Red dresses hang in Lion's Park, and will also be on display inside the Municipal Government Building, NexSource Centre, and Wellness & Community Connections Centre.
Mayor Hanson says recognizing Red Dress Day across Canada, and specifically in Sylvan Lake, is an important step towards achieving justice, reconciliation, and equity for Indigenous peoples and honoring the resilience and strength of Indigenous women and girls.
"Today, we encourage you to wear red and learn how we can support the calls to action and the movement toward ending Indigenous genocide."
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