FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2025
Treaty 1 Territory – Winnipeg, Manitoba
On Red Dress Day, the National Family and Survivors Circle Inc. (NFSC Inc.) joins voices across the country to honour the lives of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people cruelly taken by violence. We remember the missing, mourn the murdered, and stand with impacted families and survivors of gender- and race-based violence seeking justice, healing, and meaningful change.
The red dresses displayed in communities across Canada are more than symbols. They are sacred witnesses—reminders of lives stolen, families grieving, and the ongoing national crisis. Red Dress Day is not only about remembrance. It is a call to transform awareness into action and accountability.
A National Crisis Demanding Action
Violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people is not an isolated tragedy—it is a national emergency. Rooted in colonialism, systemic racism, and neglect, this crisis reflects the longstanding failure of governments and institutions to protect Indigenous lives.
To NFSC Inc., Red Dress Day is not a ceremonial observance—it is a demand for action and accountability. While frameworks like the National Action Plan, the Federal Pathway, and annual reporting signal progress, they are only as effective as their implementation. What is needed now is sustained, transparent, community-led action guided by the lived experience of families and survivors.
Implementing the 231 Calls for Justice
The 231 Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are not recommendations. They are legal obligations, rooted in human rights and Indigenous law. Full implementation is essential—not optional—if Canada is to end this violence.
Upholding the inherent and human rights of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people is a national duty. These rights are grounded in Indigenous law and affirmed by international human rights standards. They must be reflected in every policy, every institution, and every government decision. For too long, these rights have been ignored or denied, contributing to intergenerational harm. The time for bold, principled action is now. Justice will not come from words alone—it requires courageous leadership, sustained investment, and unwavering accountability.
“The 231 Calls for Justice are not policy choices—they are legal and moral obligations. They are a blueprint for national transformation, grounded in human rights and Indigenous law. Governments have the power to act—and the responsibility to lead. This is not only a moment of accountability, but a chance to be remembered for doing what is right. We urge every level of government to honour these Calls through bold, coordinated action and lasting partnership—with survivors, with families, and with Indigenous communities—so that future generations inherit a country that chose justice.”
— Hilda Anderson-Pyrz, Chair, National Family and Survivors Circle Inc.
In a society where decisions are too often shaped by economic pressures, we must return to foundational values—those that place human dignity above market price. The lives and rights of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people are not just policy issues—they reflect who we are as a nation. Governments must lead with courage and conscience, ensuring that every action taken is rooted in respect, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility. By building systems that reflect these shared values, we do more than address a crisis—we create a pathway toward justice, equity, and national integrity.
A Collective Responsibility
Ending this crisis requires more than policy—it requires political will and moral clarity.
We call on all levels of government to take bold, coordinated action. Institutions must dismantle the systems that enable harm. Canadians must engage—by learning, listening, and advocating for change. Every voice matters. Every action counts.
NFSC Inc. stands in unwavering solidarity with families, survivors, and Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.. Together, we are building a future where Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people are safe, valued, and free.
The time to act is now.
We understand that this subject matter is difficult for many people in our community. If you require immediate support, please contact the national, independent toll-free 24/7 support line at 1-844-413-6649 to speak to a counsellor. The service is available in English, French, Cree, Anishnaabemowin (Ojibway), and Inuktitut.
About the National Family and Survivors Circle, Inc.
The NFSC Inc. is a legally incorporated, non-profit organization comprised of Inuit, Métis, and First Nations women from diverse backgrounds who use their lived expertise to advocate for centering the voices of families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people, survivors of gender-based violence, and Indigenous women, girls, and gender diverse people, in the implementation of the 231 Calls for Justice, the National Action Plan on MMIWG2S+, and the Federal Pathway.
NFSC Inc website: https://familysurvivorscircle.ca/
Media Inquiries: info@familysurvivorscircle.ca
