Today, May 5, marks Red Dress Day, also known as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+) in Canada. It is a day to honour, remember, and raise awareness about the ongoing violence faced by Indigenous communities.
What is Red Dress Day?
Red Dress Day is a National Day of Remembrance for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people who are missing or have been murdered. The day is symbolized by red dresses displayed in public spaces, representing those who are no longer present.
The movement was inspired by the REDress Project by Métis artist Jaime Black, who used empty red dresses as a visual reminder of lives lost and voices that must not be forgotten.
What is the significance?
Red Dress Day brings attention to the disproportionate rates of violence experienced by Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals in Canada. These realities are connected to the lasting impacts of colonization, systemic racism, and social inequities.
In 2019, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls released its final report, highlighting the urgent need for awareness, accountability, and meaningful change.
This day is not only about remembrance - it is also about recognizing these systemic issues and committing to ongoing learning and action.
How can you, as a Sheridan College student, acknowledge Red Dress Day?
There are many meaningful ways to take part:
Wear red to show solidarity
Attend or learn about local vigils and events
Take time to reflect on the stories and experiences of Indigenous communities
Educate yourself by reading, listening, and engaging with Indigenous voices
Share information to help raise awareness within your circles
Even small actions can contribute to greater understanding and visibility.
How can you support Indigenous students and communities?
Your support goes beyond one day. As a student at Sheridan College, consider the following ways to show up consistently and respectfully:
Listen to and amplify Indigenous voices without speaking over them
Be mindful, respectful, and open to learning
Challenge stereotypes, misinformation, and harmful narratives when you encounter them
Support Indigenous-led initiatives, businesses, and creators
Create space for inclusion and understanding in your communities
At the Sheridan Student Union, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment means actively learning and showing respect for Indigenous cultures, histories, and experiences. The Sky Sisters docu-series, for example, sheds light on the realities of the Highway of Tears, the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls epidemic, and the role of the justice system.
As your student union, we recognize that this learning must be ongoing and are committed to creating opportunities that deepen awareness, amplify Indigenous voices, and support our community in turning knowledge into meaningful action.
Learn more about MMIWG2S+
To learn more or access support, Sheridan offers dedicated services through the Sheridan Centre for Indigenous Learning and Support Services. These services provide culturally grounded support, resources, and community connections for Indigenous students and the broader Sheridan community.