Red Dress Day
Red Dress Day is a National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+). The empty red dress has become a powerful symbol of those who should still be with us today, first introduced as a symbol by Métis artist Jaime Black. On this day, communities across Canada gather to honour the lives, families, and communities forever impacted by this ongoing national tragedy.
Red Dress Day Walking Vigil
The Town of Aurora invites all community members to participate in a walking vigil beginning at Aurora Town Square and culminating at Aurora Town Park. This reflective, community walk provides an opportunity to stand in solidarity, learn, and show support for justice, healing, and systemic change. Everyone is welcome.
The walking vigil will conclude at Aurora Town Park with a ceremony led by Grandmother Kim Wheatley, and will feature remarks from Sharon Rigby, a sacred fire tended by Firekeeper Raiden Levesque and the Cedar Singers.
Date: Tuesday, May 5
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Starting Location: Aurora Town Square
End Location: Aurora Town Park
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
Participants are encouraged to wear red to honour MMIWG2S+
What to Expect
- A gathering at Aurora Town Square to begin the walk
- A guided walking vigil from Town Square to Town Park
- Space for reflection, learning, and community connection
The walk proceeds rain or shine unless conditions become unsafe.
Why Red Dress Day Matters
Red Dress Day brings awareness to the disproportionate and unacceptable levels of violence experienced by Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. Communities observe this day to honour lives lost, support survivors and families, and reaffirm a commitment to the Calls for Justice outlined in the National Inquiry into MMIWG2S+.
By walking together, we acknowledge the past and present realities of Indigenous communities while supporting pathways toward justice and healing.
Resources
- Government of Canada
- National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
- Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenough Women and Girls
- Métis Artist Jaime Black
- Hope for Wellness Helpline (Indigenous Centred)
- Crisis Service Canada
- National Family and Survivors Circle
Contact Us
Town of Aurora
100 John West Way
Aurora ON L4G 6J1
Phone: 905-727-1375 or 905-727-3123
Fax: 905-726-4769
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