Bonus: The Powerful Silence of the Red Dress

May 5 is the National Day of awareness and remembrance for the Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people (MMIWG2S), also known as "Red Dress Day," coined by Métis artist Jaime Black as "an aesthetic response to this critical national issue." The ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people that we are facing is a direct result of colonization. In Canada, more than six in ten (63%) Indigenous women have experienced physical or sexual assault in their lifetime. The impact of these disproportionately high rates of violence is felt in all areas of life. The effects on health and wellness include inequitable access and treatment in health care and underrepresentation in health research. On Red Dress Day, and every day, we honor the lives and legacies of MMIWG2S by listening to their stories and commemorating their strength and spirits. We stand in solidarity with the families and communities who continue in the pursuit of justice, healing, and change. To raise awareness and pay tribute on this day, wear red, inform yourself about MMIWG2S, and participate in your local community events to commemorate this day.If you, or someone you know is experiencing signs of distress don't hesitate to reach out to services available 24/7/365:Hope for Wellness Help Line (Indigenous centered): 1-855-242-3310Crisis Services Canada: (Canada-wide) 9-8-8National Family and Survivors Circle: 1-844-413-6649Sources: https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/final-report/ https://www.jaimeblackartist.com/exhibitions/?msclkid=d21168a1c5a011ec9c6fafe822b89398 https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/52964.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.