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Say their names: Vancouver Islanders say victims of violence not forgotten

On May 5, 2025, communities across Canada, including Indigenous groups on Vancouver Island, came together to participate in Red Dress Day, a day dedicated to honoring and remembering Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals who have experienced violence or have gone missing.
The event highlights ongoing concerns about violence towards Indigenous women and the enduring effects of residential schools, and coincides with May 5 being recognized as the birthdate of Lisa Marie Young, a young Indigenous woman from the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation who went missing under suspicious circumstances in 2002.
Local activities included a tea and dessert event by the Port Alberni Friendship Center, a Call for Justice walk by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation in Opitsaht, and speeches at Huu-ay-aht gatherings in Port Alberni and Anacla to remember lost lives and call for justice.
Participants like Irene Robinson and Mio emphasized saying names and coming together to grieve, while attendees carried posters and lit candles for loved ones such as Brandy Vitrrekwa, murdered in 2014, and Loretta Eileen Peters, murdered in 1979; Robinson noted that change is happening, but slowly.
This annual remembrance highlights the ongoing need to raise awareness about disproportionate violence against Indigenous women and encourages community healing and continued efforts toward justice and change.

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