Minister Kuptana: Red Dress Day | Government of Northwest ...

Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, provided the following statement for Red Dress Day:

“Today, my heart and thoughts are with the survivors and families of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. Red Dress Day is not just a day of remembrance; it is a day of action and reflection on the ongoing impact of systemic injustices.

“The haunting visual of empty red dresses serves as a powerful reminder of the thousands who should be standing with us today. This day draws its inspiration from Jaime Black’s REDress art installation project, an evocative symbol of the lives taken and the pervasive inequities faced by Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

“Our communities know too well the pain wrought by past and present injustices—from the era of residential schools to the decades of tuberculosis crises and the 60's Scoop. The violence that continues to target Indigenous women and girls is a stark reality that we face every day.

“Indigenous women face violence every day in the home, the workplace, and within our community. We lean on each other when times are tough and lend a helping hand to others in need. We are resilient. As the backbone of our society, we find strength within ourselves to support our communities so our children and grandchildren do not become a statistic. We must work for a better world where Indigenous women and girls are valued and protected.

“In 2019, the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was a wake-up call for all jurisdictions across Canada to address the ongoing effects of colonialism on our systems and institutions. Since then, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has been proactive in our commitment to change. "Changing the Relationship," our government’s action plan, was crafted in close consultation with Indigenous governments, community leaders, and those with lived experiences.

“This plan lays a foundation for dismantling the legacies of colonialism and discrimination to respond to the Calls for Justice. We are making strides through various initiatives, including work to establish an MMIWG advisory committee, the development of a strategic framework to combat family violence in the NWT, and collaboration with the Native Women’s Association of the NWT to provide support in communities and facilitate discussions on gender-based violence among men.

“Today, as we mark Red Dress Day, we stand united across Canada, giving voice to those who no longer can. It is essential that we not only remember but act. I urge everyone to engage with the National Inquiry’s final report and its Calls for Justice. Educate yourselves, spread awareness, and help us build a community where no one is left vulnerable.

“Let us take today to remember, to learn, and to support. Our ancestors taught us the power of community and resilience—let us honor them by doing the same. Together, we can stop and prevent violence and ensure that all Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals live in safety and dignity.

“For those who need support today or anytime, remember help is available. You can reach out to the toll-free number 1-844-413-6649 or the NWT Helpline at 1-800-661-0844.”