Recognizing Red Shirt Day to honour missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls

On behalf of York Regional Council and The Regional Municipality of York, I am honoured to recognize May 5, 2025, as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people – also known as Red Dress Day. 

Red Dress Day is a solemn reminder of the Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people who have been lost to colonial and gender-based violence. It is a day to honour their lives, support grieving families and communities and renew our commitment to action and healing. 

As we reflect on the painful truths and ongoing impacts of systemic violence, we stand in solidarity with Indigenous Peoples across York Region and Canada. We encourage residents to review the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which includes 231 Calls for Justice, which provide a path forward for governments, institutions and individuals to take meaningful action toward ending violence and advancing reconciliation. 

Regional Council remains committed to building strong, welcoming and inclusive communities. We continue to walk alongside Indigenous partners in listening, learning and taking definite steps toward truth, reconciliation and justice. 

In recognition of Red Dress Day and to honour the memories of those we have lost, the clock tower at the York Region Administrative Centre in the Town of Newmarket will be illuminated red on Monday, May 5, 2025.

We acknowledge that today may be difficult for many. A national, toll-free support line is available 24/7 for anyone requiring emotional support related to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people. Assistance is available at 1-844-413-6649.

Eric Jolliffe
York Region Chairman and CEO
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Media Contact: 
Corporate Communications, The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 1-877-464-9675, ext. 71234 
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