Londoners came together on May 5, 2026, to observe Red Dress Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit people. The event featured a walk through the city, culminating in a ceremony that highlighted the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous communities.
A Day of Remembrance and Action
Red Dress Day, also known as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, is observed annually across Canada. In London, the event drew a diverse crowd of community members, activists, and supporters who walked together to raise awareness and demand justice. Indigenous activist Sierra Jamieson addressed the crowd, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and systemic change.
Community Response
Participants carried red dresses and signs bearing the names of victims, creating a powerful visual reminder of the lives lost. The walk began at a local community center and proceeded through downtown streets, concluding with a ceremonial gathering where prayers and speeches were offered. Many attendees expressed a mix of sorrow and determination, vowing to keep the issue at the forefront of public discourse.
The event also served as an educational opportunity, with organizers sharing resources on how to support Indigenous-led initiatives and report missing persons cases. Local leaders called for stronger action from all levels of government to address the root causes of violence, including systemic racism and economic inequality.
Red Dress Day was first established in 2010 by Indigenous artist and activist Jaime Black, who used red dresses as a symbol for the missing and murdered women. The color red is meant to represent the blood spilled and the spirit of the victims. Since then, the movement has grown into a national campaign, with events held in cities and towns across Canada.
In London, the event was organized by a coalition of Indigenous organizations and allies, who stressed that the fight for justice continues beyond a single day of recognition. They urged attendees to stay engaged, support Indigenous communities, and hold elected officials accountable for implementing the calls for justice outlined in the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
The day concluded with a call to action: to remember those who have been taken, to support those who remain, and to work toward a future where no more red dresses are needed.
