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(Image Credit: File photo)
By Erika Rolling
MMIWG

Mayor Clayton statement for Red Dress Day 2026

May 5, 2026 | 12:08 PM

May 5, 2026, is Red Dress Day.

Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton has released a statement recognizing the National Day for the Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people:

“Today, the City of Grande Prairie joins communities across Canada in recognizing Red Dress Day and honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives.

This day is a time to remember the lives lost, reflect on the ongoing impacts of violence against Indigenous people, and renew our shared commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. We recognize and thank Métis artist Jaime Black, creator of the REDress Project, for a powerful symbol that continues to raise awareness and inspire action.

Red Dress Day is also a call to action to address the systemic challenges that continue to affect Indigenous communities. Council’s priority of Community Empowerment and Livability reflects our commitment to a place where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered to connect with one another.

The City’s Indigenous Relations Framework guides this work locally, aligning with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action and supporting meaningful, ongoing progress.

We encourage residents to take part in Red Dress Day by participating in local events and moments of reflection, to honour those who are missing or murdered, stand with their families, and show a shared commitment to awareness and calls for change.

The Grande Prairie Friendship Centre is hosting its annual Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives 5 km Walk and Run at Muskoseepi Park. More information can be found on The Friendship Centre’s Facebook page.

By taking part, we acknowledge the importance of this day and reaffirm our responsibility to listen, learn and act in support of safer, more inclusive communities for all.

Kinanâskomitin (Thank you, I am grateful to you),

-Mayor Jackie Clayton”

by Erika Rolling