Singing for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls at Killarney Lake
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This is part of a series called Ann's Eye, featuring the work of Ann Paul, a Wolastoqey content creator. You can see more Ann's Eye pieces by clicking here.
There can be many different feelings about and perspectives on Red Dress Day, says Ann Paul.
Recognized every year on May 5, Red Dress Day is a day to grieve and honour missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit+ people (MMIWG2S+).
The final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls considers violence against Indigenous women, girls and gender diverse people to be genocide.
Red Dress Day started in 2010, when Métis artist Jamie Black hung hundreds of red dresses to honour MMIWG2S+.
WATCH | Whether it's joy or sadness, all Red Dress Day feelings are valid, says organizer:
Ann's Eye: Honouring Red Dress Day at Killarney Lake
11 minutes ago
Duration 1:30
The Under One Sky Friendship Centre in Fredericton organized a memorial walk at Killarney Lake for Red Dress Day, a national day of remembrance and awareness for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people.
Many communities mark the day with marches, healing circles, sacred fires and prayer. Most dress in red — a sacred colour, Ann says — and some paint red handprints over their mouths, a symbol of those lost lives and unheard voices.
To others, including Ann, the symbol is a reminder of grief and trauma, and can be discomforting to see.
"Once we take that hand off their mouths, we're giving their voices back," she said. "But I understand that everyone has different perspectives."
Red Dress Day itself should also go beyond one-time, performative actions, Ann said, and promote year-long education and awareness.
Ann joined members of Under One Sky Friendship Centre for a Red Dress Day memorial walk around Killarney Lake. Scroll through the photos and watch the video to see more.
Ann's Eye
Photographer Ann Paul brings an Indigenous lens to stories from First Nations communities across New Brunswick. Click here or on the image below to see more of her work.
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