On May 5th, 2025, residents from all four Tłı̨chǫ communities gathered to commemorate the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), also known as Red Dress Day. The events were organized by the Department of Justice & Victim Services and the Department of Healing & Wellness, with strong support from local partners and community organizations.
Across the region, over 700 commemorative red t-shirts were distributed and proudly worn during various activities, including community walks, beading nights, ceremonies, and shared meals.
Behchokǫ̀ (May 2–5, 2025)
In Behchokǫ̀, two days of awareness activities were held. On May 2nd, a beading night took place at Elizabeth Mackenzie Elementary School (EMES), where participants created red dress beadwork and earrings as symbols of remembrance. On May 5th, the community came together for a walk, wearing their red t-shirts and beadwork in honor of the day. The walk was followed by a sacred feeding of the fire ceremony, offering prayers and reflection, and concluded with a community BBQ that brought together families, elders, and youth. These events united over 150 participants in a powerful display of solidarity.
The success of Behchokǫ̀'s events was made possible through collaboration among Justice and Victim Services, the Behchokǫ̀ Presence Office (BPO), the Wellness Centre, and local schools (EMES and Chief Jimmy Bruneau School). The presence of community leaders and GNWT officials, including Tlicho Government Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty, Chief Clifford Daniels, and Premier R.J. Simpson, underscored the significance of the day.
Gamètì
In Gamètì, more than 70 residents participated in a community walk while wearing MMIWG commemorative t-shirts. The day also featured a traditional feeding of the fire ceremony and a BBQ, fostering a sense of unity and collective healing rooted in cultural respect and remembrance.
Whatì & Wekweètì
Both communities hosted heartfelt MMIWG Awareness Beading Nights. These events provided an opportunity for participants to craft red dress pins, earrings, or pop sockets, each piece serving as a deeply personal symbol of remembrance and solidarity. Beading materials, meals, and refreshments were provided, creating a welcoming environment. Participants were encouraged to either keep their beadwork as a memento or share it as a symbol of awareness.
Additionally, information tables were set up to highlight the issue of MMIWG2S+ and provide resources for those interested in learning more. The events encouraged meaningful conversations and fostered greater understanding of the issue.
The gatherings demonstrated the enduring strength, unity, and cultural resilience of the Tłı̨chǫ people. Through their efforts, they sent a powerful message: We remember, we honor, and we will continue the fight for justice.
Funded by:
- Justice/Victim Services Division, Client Services Department
- Supported by the Client Services Department
For more information or support, please get in touch with the Justice & Victim Services Division:
For more information or support, please contact your community’s Justice & Victims coordinator:
Behchokǫ̀
Abbigail Rabesca
PH 867-392-1700 Ext 1709
E: [email protected]
Senior Justice Services Coordinator
Tianna Migwi
PH: 867-392-1700 Ext 1704
E: [email protected]
Gamètì
Michelle Ekendia
PH: 867-997-3074 Ext 1507
E: [email protected]
Whatì
Gloria Romie
PH: 867-573-3012 Ext 1409
E: [email protected]
Wekweètì
Laylu Judas
PH: 867-713-2814
E: [email protected]
Success Stories/ Lessons Learned
Across the Tłı̨chǫ region, the communities of Behchokǫ̀, Whatì, Gamètì, and Wekweètì came together in a series of powerful events to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). Through community walks, beading nights, ceremonies, and shared meals, each gathering reflected deep love, remembrance, and unity.
These events were more than awareness — they were acts of love, strength, and cultural pride. With strong turnout and community-led engagement, the gatherings were a true success, reinforcing that the lives and voices of MMIWG are not forgotten. Together, the Tłı̨chǫ Nation continues to honour the past while standing strong for the future.
