This day aims to recognize and raise awareness about the alarming rate of violence and abuse that Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people face in Canada.
“We stand solid in our commitment to the families who are still impacted by these horrific crimes and to bring awareness and education to the public,” said Ogimma-kwe Claire Sault, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. “We can’t change the past, but we can certainly change the future for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals who have been devasted by violence or are still missing. We need to be a voice for those we’ve lost and a strength to those who are left behind. For survivors, we need to continue to create safe spaces that allows them to tell their story.”
The 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action report identified 94 steps to address the damaging impact of residential schools in Canada. One of these steps, Call to Action #41, focuses on the issue of disproportionate violence against Indigenous women and girls and proposes the creation of a public inquiry into this crisis, which remains an urgent matter of concern.
“Today, Mississauga stands in solidarity with the Indigenous community and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals who have been impacted by violence or have gone missing,” said Acting Mayor, Matt Mahoney. “We pause to reflect and acknowledge the pain and suffering they have experienced and to show our support for them and their families. We honour the strength and courage of the survivors who have shared their stories with us.”
On May 5, the City will recognize these tragic moments in Canada’s Indigenous history, by:
- Dimming the Clock Tower at Mississauga City Hall
- Lowering the Every Child Matters flag at City Hall to half-mast
The community is encouraged to show their support and raise awareness of MMIWG2S by wearing red, joining the conversation online, viewing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s report and other related material. Additional information and resources can be found on the City’s webpage.