Story by Claire Poirier

At Rise, we are committed to the ongoing development of our own awareness, and to spreading that awareness to others, about the ongoing and systemic forms of violence that continue to impact the lives of Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited people, as well as the lives of their families and communities.  

The 2019 report, Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, demonstrates that multiple factors perpetuate the historic and contemporary manifestations of colonialism that lead to additional violence. These factors include ongoing and intergenerational trauma, social and economic marginalization, ignoring the expertise and agency of Indigenous women and girls, maintaining the status quo and institutional lack of will. 

Further, the Report demonstrates that since these factors are caused by colonial systems, they are also preventable. Numerous international human rights instruments, according to the principles of non-discrimination and substantive equity, obligate Canada to uphold the dignity of all people (2019 Volume 1a: 200-201). The 231 Calls to Justice outlined in the 2019 Report mandate bodies of government, specific sectors, and all Canadians to engage in preventive actions such as: implementing consistent and reliable funding programs, introducing anti-racism training, and prioritizing human security to ensure safe housing, transportation, employment and community for Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people (2019 Volume 1b: 176-199).  

That the circumstances perpetuating colonial violence are preventable makes us all accountable to ensure a secure and sustainable future for Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people to thrive and prosper. Two important dates in May draw public attention to this issue, and call for awareness and action across Turtle Island to prevent systemic gender-based violence.

Red Dress Day, which occurs annually on May 5, is a national day of remembrance and activism to honour the lives of the missing and murdered and raises awareness of the disproportionate and ongoing violence against Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people.  

Moose Hide Campaign Day, which falls on May 14 annually, is a powerful and enduring national movement that call upon men and non-indigenous people to do anti-violence work, understanding we all have a role to play in honouring Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. 

To commemorate these days in May, Rise team members participated in in-person gatherings and online events, including sessions about Cultivating Safe Spaces with Elaine Alec; the Physical and Spiritual Benefits of Fasting with Grandmother Renee Thomas, Paul Lacerte, Perry McLeod-Shabogesic and Bob Goulais; and Indigenous Trauma and Equity-informed Practice with Len Pierre. 

A reflection from Jordan, a Junior Consultant at Rise, on the Physical and Spiritual Benefits of Fasting workshop, “Together, their teachings reframed fasting as an act of love—one that strengthens resilience, spirit, identity, and connection.” 

A reflection from Patti, a Senior Consultant at Rise, on Cultivating Safe Spaces: “Deep self-understanding and self-awareness as a prerequisite for safety. She discussed self-discipline and the discipline to work in tender spaces. You can’t contribute to safe spaces while carrying unmanaged bitterness or exhaustion.” 

See the full MMIWG 2019 report (two volumes) here: