Each May, Canadians are invited to reflect on the ongoing national crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two‑Spirit people, and to consider the role we all play in creating safer, more respectful communities. Two important initiatives, Red Dress Day and the Moose Hide Campaign, provide opportunities for awareness and important action.
Red Dress Day – May 5
Observed annually on May 5, Red Dress Day is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two‑Spirit People (MMIWG2S+). The day is inspired by the REDress Project, launched in 2010 by Métis artist Jaime Black, who used red dresses displayed in public spaces to symbolize the absence of Indigenous women and girls whose lives were lost to violence.
Red dresses have since become a powerful visual reminder. They are hung from trees, windows, and buildings to call attention to the matter. The choice of red reflects teachings shared by Elders that red is the colour the spirits can see, representing both life and loss.
Red Dress Day honours those lost, supports families and survivors, and encourages Canadians to learn more about the systemic factors that have contributed to this crisis, including the legacy of colonialism and residential schools.
The Moose Hide Campaign
The Moose Hide Campaign is a BC‑born, Indigenous‑led movement that began in 2011 and has since grown into a nationwide effort to end violence against women and children, particularly Indigenous women and girls.
Founded by Paul Lacerte, a member of the Nadleh Whut’en First Nation, and his daughter Raven Lacerte, the campaign began during a moose hunt along northern British Columbia’s Highway of Tears, which is a region deeply affected by the disappearance and deaths of Indigenous women. They cut small squares of moose hide and made a commitment to act and to invite others to do the same.
Today, the campaign is centred on the moose hide pin, which is distributed free of charge. Wearing the pin signifies a personal commitment to honour, respect, and protect women and children, and to speak out against gender‑based violence. To date, millions of moose hide pins have been shared with communities, schools, workplaces, governments, and organizations across Canada.
Moose Hide Campaign Day
Each year, Moose Hide Campaign Day is observed in mid‑May and includes ceremonies, learning events, and moments of reflection. The campaign places particular emphasis on engaging men and boys as allies and leaders in creating cultures of respect and accountability.
From Awareness to Action
Red Dress Day and the Moose Hide Campaign are distinct initiatives, but they share a common purpose: ending violence through awareness and collective responsibility. Together, they remind Canadians that remembrance must be paired with action, and that reconciliation includes creating safer environments for Indigenous women, girls, and Two‑Spirit people today and in the future.
How to Participate
Members of the Defence community and residents of CFB Borden can take part by:
- Wearing red on May 5 in recognition of Red Dress Day
- Displaying a red dress or red symbol as a visible sign of remembrance
- Wearing a moose hide pin as a personal commitment to respect and non‑violence
- Taking time to learn more about the history and ongoing impacts of violence against Indigenous communities
- Having respectful conversations that encourage understanding and accountability
More information about the campaign, educational resources, and ways to participate can be found through the Moose Hide Campaign organization. [moosehidecampaign.ca]
