The following message was sent to All Staff and Students on behalf of the Executive Leadership team: 

This message includes content that may trigger strong emotions, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that we all check in with ourselves and access the resources available to us to ensure we are taking good care of our mental health. Access mental health and self-care resources here. 

Tomorrow, October 4, is the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit People (MMIWG2S). The flags on RRC Polytech Campuses are lowered today and tomorrow as the community observes this important day. 

This day comes just four days after the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a reminder that real change requires more than awareness – it demands shifts in attitudes, institutions, and policies so that racism is dismantled and equity becomes the standard.  

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit People is a movement that illustrates the racist legacy of Canada’s justice system and the policies and attitudes that lead to the circumstances in which Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit people are at risk of being murdered or going missing. 

The Day of Action for MMIWG2S is a recognition that Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit People must be afforded the same safety, security, and justice that all people deserve. 

Families and communities across Turtle Island continue to grieve the loss of loved ones – including the families of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois, and Ashley Shingoose. Ashley is now known as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, a name she was given before her identification and the name her family wishes her to be remembered by. 

In 2019, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls published the final report, Reclaiming Power and Place, which asserts 231 Calls to Justice that address issues that accumulate into dangerous situations. The Final Report draws on the testimonies of over 2,380 family members, survivors of violence, experts, and Knowledge Keepers collected through two years of nationwide hearings and evidence gathering. 

Call to Justice 11.1. addresses all educators and educational institutions to educate and provide awareness to the public about missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people, and about the issues and root causes of violence they experience. 

Because of the violence Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit People face and the historic lack of response from the justice system, many Indigenous families are hesitant to send their young women and Two Spirit relatives away from home to pursue higher education. This absence of safety and feeling secure creates a significant barrier to post-secondary opportunities. At RRC Polytech, we have a responsibility to acknowledge these realities and raise awareness. By doing so, we can foster a learning and working environment where community members feel safer, supported, and understood. 

In 2023, RRC Polytech and the Campus Store partnered with Métis artist Shayre Curé to create an original design for a Red Shirt for MMIWG2S, the proceeds of which go to the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award for Indigenous students. The bursary, valued at $1,000, aims to alleviate some financial stress for Indigenous students. The shirts are produced and ordered through Red Rebel Armour, owned and operated by RRC Polytech alum Sean Rayland-Boubar. 

This October 4, we encourage you to view resources available through the Library, including the Library Guide, films like Felicia Solomon’s Story, and Tina Fontaine: A Murdered Girl’s Legacy from CBC Curio; and films through the National Film Board like Finding Dawn, The Red Dress, and this river.  

The Government of Canada’s National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls always has free resources available, including direct access to the Final Report itself.  

Many Indigenous organizations have additional programs that support the National Inquiry and education on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit People like the Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc. MMIWG2S and Violence Prevention.  

We also acknowledge that this observance may be emotionally taxing, especially for Indigenous students and employees. Please remember that outside of formal events in which they agree to participate, Indigenous community members may decline discussing this observance because of its emotional and cultural impact.  

Thank you, 

Fred Meier, President and CEO 

Dr. Christine Watson, Vice President Academic

Jamie Wilson,  Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development

Giselle Martel, Vice President, Finance and Administration

Melanie Gudmundson,  Chief Human Resource Officer

David Petis,  Executive Director, Advancement