Red Dress Day is observed every year on May 5. It is a time for reflection and remembrance of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls, and renewed dedication to end the violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. Communities are encouraged to participate by organizing remembrance walks and to talk about the issues around gender-based violence.

Message from the Honourable Margaret Nakashuk, Minister responsible for the Status of Women:

‘’I encourage everyone to mark Red Dress Day, and to take a moment to remember those we lost too soon. We must work tirelessly with our partners to ensure that the 46 Inuit-specific Calls for Justice in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are realized.‘’

Message from the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council President Amber Aglukark:

“Reconciliation means that our rights are recognized, and that our safety and security are vital to decision-makers. Only then can we heal and grow into our full potential. We must empower our women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and help them strive in safe, loving homes and communities. Qulliit is committed to this end, and will work with all our partners to realize this goal.”

Red Dress Day 2023

On May 5, 2023, Qulliit and partners held a rally in front of Qulliit’s offices in Iqaluit, followed by a remembrance march to demand change and action.