*This post contains mentions of violence against MMIWG2S+, which may affect some readers.
If you need support, please contact the National Family and Survivors Circle at 1-844-413-6649*
Sisters in Spirit Day is observed annually on October 4th and is a day for raising awareness and honouring the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals (MMIWG2S+). This day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing violence faced by Indigenous communities and the urgent need for justice, healing, and support. Read on to learn more about how to take action and honour this important day.
A Day of Remembrance and Action
Sisters in Spirit Day invites us to reflect on the lives lost and the families affected by these heartbreaking tragedies. It is a time to honour the memories of those taken from us too soon and stand in solidarity with their loved ones. If you choose to go to an event, it often includes vigils, marches, and educational gatherings that foster community and collective healing.
This day is not only about remembrance; it’s also a crucial moment for raising awareness. Many are still unaware of the extent of violence faced by Indigenous women and Two-Spirit individuals. Sharing stories, statistics, and personal experiences can educate ourselves and others about the systemic issues contributing to this crisis.
Statistics on MMIWG2S+ from the Assembly of First Nations
- Indigenous women are four times more likely than non-Indigenous women to be victims of violence.
- Indigenous women make up 16% of all female homicide victims and 11% of missing women, yet Indigenous people make up only 4.3% of the population of Canada.
- In Canada, more than six in ten (63%) Indigenous women have experienced physical or sexual assault in their lifetime.
- 56% of Indigenous women have suffered physical assault, and 46% have experienced sexual assault. By comparison, about one-third of non-Indigenous women have suffered these assaults in their lifetimes.
- From 2001 to 2014, the average rate of homicides involving Indigenous female victims was four times that of those involving non-Indigenous female victims.
To learn more about MMIWG2S+, visit these websites:
National Inquiry for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Native Women’s Association of Canada
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
CBC News: 5 years after MMIWG Inquiry’s final report, former commissioners still waiting for progress
How Can I Get Involved?
- Participate in Local Events
- Join a vigil or community gathering to honour the lives of MMIWG2s+ people and show your support and solidarity.
- Awo Taan is hosting its 21st annual Sisters in Spirit vigil on October 4th at Olympic Plaza. The event will feature drummers, guest speakers, and testimonies from families impacted by MMIWG2S+.
- Wear Red to Show your Support
- Remembrance: Red honours the lives lost and the pain of their families.
- Awareness: It raises awareness about the violence Indigenous communities face and sparks meaningful conversations about justice.
- Cultural Meaning: In many Indigenous cultures, red symbolizes protection, love, and strength, highlighting community resilience.
- Unity: Wearing red demonstrates support for Indigenous communities and a commitment to advocating for change.
- Spread the Word
Use social media to share information, resources, and personal stories. Utilize hashtags like #SistersInSpirit to amplify voices that need to be heard. - Educate Yourself
Take the time to learn about these issues’ history and cultural context. Understanding the roots of violence against Indigenous communities is crucial for fostering meaningful change. - Support Indigenous Organizations
Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations supporting Indigenous women, families, and communities.
Sisters in Spirit Day is a call to action for all of us. It’s about more than just awareness; it’s about creating meaningful change. By coming together, we can advocate for policy changes, support families affected by violence, and work towards a future where all individuals feel safe and valued.
As we observe Sisters in Spirit Day, let’s commit to being allies in this fight for justice and healing. Together, we can honour the memories of those we’ve lost and strive for a world where no one is forgotten.
