May 15, 2025, VOL. 6 ISSUE 18

Monday, May 5 marked the National Day of Awareness and Remembrance for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2S People (MMIWG2S), also known as Red Dress Day. Initiated by Métis artist Jaime Black, Red Dress Day served as a powerful visual and aesthetic response to this critical national issue.

For the second consecutive year, Mrs. Maracle-Gerritsen (Haudenosaunee Mohawk, Bear Clan), Mrs. Murdoch, the Indigenous Student Alliance, and numerous allied staff and students displayed red dresses outside the front of the school and in the atrium. These installations were intended to raise awareness both within the school and throughout the Fort Erie community.

Throughout the week of May 5 to May 9, student-compiled daily facts and remembrances were shared via GTV announcements and featured on the school’s electronic billboard. Additionally, on Monday and Tuesday, a bake sale and awareness pin fundraiser were held in the atrium at lunch, with all proceeds supporting the MMIWG2S campaign. An educational display in the main entrance display case offered further insight and remembrance for those affected by this ongoing crisis.

The goal was to continue raising awareness and paying respect to the missing and murdered sisters, brothers, and community members. Despite growing attention, many remained unaware of the MMIWG2S crisis—an issue rooted in the impacts of colonization. In Canada, more than 63% of Indigenous women had experienced physical or sexual assault in their lifetime. This disproportionate violence significantly affected health, wellness, access to care, and representation in health research.

Aligned with the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) affirmed the importance of research in promoting the health, safety, and well-being of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women, girls, 2S individuals, and their communities.

On Red Dress Day—and every day—Greater Fort Erie Secondary School honoured the lives, stories, and strength of MMIWG2S. Staff and students stood in solidarity with the families and communities continuing to pursue justice, healing, and meaningful change.

To show support and raise awareness, the school community encouraged everyone to wear red, educate themselves about MMIWG2S, and participate in local events commemorating the day.