May 5 – National Day of Awareness for MMIWG2S+
-
Posted by Shelby Percival
- Posted in BlogsNews
On May 5, 2026, people across Canada recognize the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2-Spirit (MMIWG2S+) people in Canada. The day is meant to remember, honour, and raise awareness for the high rates of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Recognition of this started back in 2010 with the REDress Project created by Métis artist Jaime Black.
An important element of Red Dress Day is recognizing the Calls for Justice included in the final report that resulted from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (“MMIWG”). The inquiry was officially launched by the Government of Canada on September 1, 2016, following decades of advocacy and a 2015 pre-inquiry. Led by independent commissioners, the inquiry was created to investigate systemic causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, releasing its final report on June 3, 2019. The resulting 231 Calls for Justice are in varying stages of implementation.
Falconers LLP is honoured to continue to assist Indigenous peoples as they work to stand up and advocate for their rights. Falconers LLP also urges the Canadian public to take the time to learn about the challenges that are affecting Indigenous peoples, especially Women, Girls, and 2-Spirit people, as they are disproportionately impacted in social and judicial spaces across Canada.
Ways to Support and Show Solidarity
- Wear red to show support and solidarity;
- The Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (NCCT) is hosting a gathering from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM to gather in remembrance and solidarity. The event includes a Sacred Fire, music, reflection, and a community feast;
- The Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is marking the day with the Msko-mjigoodenh Zhinoomaagewin / Red Dress Exhibit on Gould Street, along with a curated micro-gallery by the library.
- Support Indigenous-Led Organizations through donating or volunteering with local organizations that support Indigenous women and families;
- Familiarize yourself with the Calls for Justice included in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Final Report – Final Report | MMIWG; and
- Browse additional resources and information on the Amnesty International website – Amnesty International Red Dress Day 2026 – Red Dress Day | Amnesty International Canada.
