Walking together in remembrance
A community call for Red Dress Day
NAZREENA ANWAR-TRAVAS
Each year, red dresses appear in windows, on fences, and in community spaces — quiet but powerful reminders of Indigenous women, girls, and Two‑Spirit people who are missing or who were taken too soon. They symbolize loss, love, and a collective refusal to forget.
On May 5, community members are invited to take part in the National Red Dress Day Vigil Walk, a gathering rooted in remembrance, solidarity, and shared responsibility. This community‑driven event is led by families and individuals whose connection to the MMIWG2S (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People) crisis is deeply personal. It exists because for many families, the pain of loss does not end — and because awareness must lead to action.
The walk begins at 3 pm at Alberta Avenue Community Hall and concludes at Eastwood Community League, where participants will gather for storytelling, reflection, and shared food. Designed to be slow‑paced and accessible, the walk welcomes families, elders, and people with mobility needs. Participants are encouraged to join for as much or as little as they are able — this gathering is about presence, not endurance.
Participation in Red Dress Day events has continued to grow over the years. What began as something deeply personal has expanded as more people acknowledge the ongoing and widespread violence linked to Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP). Increased awareness, community advocacy, and families courageously sharing their stories have encouraged more people to come together and stand in solidarity.
For Falguni Patel, an immigrant to Canada, the event holds deep meaning. “Participating in Red Dress Day is a way to learn the history of the land, remember those who are missing, and honour First Nations whose stories are too often unheard,” she says.
One of the most meaningful moments of the day is “SAY MY NAME.” Families and community members speak the names of loved ones who have been taken in a sacred space grounded in respect and listening. For those not speaking, being present and holding space is a powerful act of support.
At the heart of this event is Fran Chalifoux. Her commitment began with the loss of her niece, Sierra Chalifoux Thompson, who was just 13 years old when her life was taken in 2020. Through this event, grief becomes collective strength and remembrance becomes a call for accountability, healing, and change.
Community involvement extends beyond attending the walk. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to contribute by wearing red, displaying red dresses, learning about the 231 Calls for Justice, donating or sponsoring supplies, creating public displays, and sharing information within their networks.
Volunteers are essential and are needed for event setup, guiding participants, assisting elders, supporting workshops, and general coordination. Built entirely through community care, every contribution makes a difference. To volunteer or learn more about the event, contact: Communications@Eastwoodhub.org
By walking together and keeping stories visible, the community sends a clear message: these lives matter, and silence is no longer acceptable.
No more stolen sisters. No more stolen brothers. Without justice, there can be no peace.
Upcoming Red Dress Day Events:
Red Dress Pins & Poster Making Workshop
Date: April 30, 2026
Time: 1 - 3 pm
Location: Eastwood Community Hall, 11803 86 St.
Admission: $5 for non-volunteers and non-Eastwood members
Ribbon Skirt Workshop
Date: May 1, 2026
Time: 11 am - 4 pm
Location: Eastwood Community Hall, 11803 86 St.
Admission: $10 for non-volunteers and non-Eastwood members
National Red Dress Day – Bring your drums, signs and wear red
Date: May 5, 2026
Start: 8 am – 2 pm, Alberta Legislature
Includes: Meet at Beaver Hills Park, noon walk, open mic sharing & caring
Topics to explore to learn more :
231 Calls for Justice – National Inquiry into MMIWG2S
MMIWG2S – Awareness and education initiatives
Native Women’s Association of Canada
Related City-Wide Events
Moose Hide Campaign Day on May 14 at Edmonton City Hall
Mothers Day Event (Honouring our Matriarchs & MMIP), May 10 at Kakio Studio Café.
Excellent article, compassionate and informative. Thank you!