May 5 is National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
Oneida Nation of the Thames is deeply committed to raising awareness by wearing red that day.
The day includes the 3rd annual Walk for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls & 2-Spirit+ People.
It’s a time to gather in remembrance, raise awareness, and stand in solidarity with families, survivors, and all Indigenous Nations, stresses Oneida Nation of the Thames Chief Todd Cornelius.
A full day of activities is planned, including the Memorial Walk at 11 a.m. at the Oneida Community Centre.
Indigenous women and girls are disproportionately affected by violence and exploitation, and their stories are often ignored or forgotten by mainstream media and society at large.
May 5 serves as an opportunity to honor and remember the lives lost, as well as to call for action and justice.
Chief Cornelius quotes a couple of troubling statistics he says point to ongoing racism.
Chief Cornelius stresses the day is about affording families an opportunity to finally be able to work toward a brighter future for their children.
Other activities planned on Oneida Nation of the Thames include children’s arts and crafts, a say-their-name memorial and workshops throughout the afternoon.
Written by Ian McCallum
