Valentine's Day this year will be about more than celebrating love, it will also mark the inaugural Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People Memorial Walk, which aims to raise awareness in Medicine Hat of seldom discussed epidemic.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
On a day set aside for love, a local advocate seeks to honour those in the Indigenous community no longer with their loved ones.
On Feb. 14, Medicine Hat will see its inaugural Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People Memorial Walk. The event, says advocate and survivor Janice Randhile, aims to promote awareness of an ongoing crisis.
“I know it’s really something that’s not spoken about much, and I don’t think there are many people who understand how serious the issue really is,” said Randhile. “I think that it’s just important to bring awareness for people to understand that this is an actual epidemic that’s happening in North America and Canada.”
The event will begin at noon outside city hall, where participants will begin with a prayer from an elder, followed by impact statements from affected families and survivors. Shortly after, those attending will walk to the corner of Altawana and First Street, before returning to close out the afternoon with drumming, song and closing remarks.
Those who choose to participate are asked to wear red to show solidarity, understanding and support for the lives of Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people, who have been murdered or are missing, and their families.
“Come to the city hall on Feb. 14 with an open heart, bring a hand drum if you have one,” said Randhile. “We’re creating a visible symbol of the community’s commitment to ending the violence and injustice faced by Indigenous peoples.”
She hopes this will be the start of a powerful new tradition for the community.
