“One year ago, tragedy struck in Mill Woods, Edmonton, when a mother and child were randomly stabbed to death, leaving the community in shock. On Sunday, their loved ones gathered to pay tribute to them, joining thousands across the country in a march for Red Dress Day.
Tribute to the Victims
The attack outside Crawford Plains School on May 5, 2023, claimed the lives of 35-year-old mother Carolann Robillard and her 11-year-old daughter Sara Miller, known as Jayden. A year later, their family marked the somber anniversary at the same event, with the faces of the victims immortalized on pins, sweaters, and posters throughout the crowd.
Heartbreaking Reflections
“It doesn’t feel real. It’s just weird to see my mom and my brother on everyone and not here with us,” expressed Tanisha Miller, highlighting the profound impact of their loss on the family. Hundreds of people marched on Red Dress Day to honor missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirited individuals, shedding light on a pressing issue that often goes unnoticed.
Demand for Answers
“We want to know what is going on with our sisters and brothers. How come they’re going missing and nobody is hearing anything? Nobody is talking about it,” voiced Lena Daniels, reflecting the frustration and urgency felt by many in the community. The march in downtown Edmonton, awash in red, culminated in Beaver Hill Park, where marchers engaged in a spontaneous round dance, underscoring the cultural resilience and solidarity of the community.
Personal Connection
Dozens of posters held high bore the names and faces of those missing and murdered, with many participants sharing personal stories of loss and grief. “I’m holding a picture of my brother, Terence Alook. He went missing on October 10, 2016, from our reserve, our hometown Wabasca,” shared Kelly Alook, emphasizing the ongoing pain and uncertainty faced by families of missing individuals.
A Bittersweet Remembrance
Despite the outpouring of support at these events, marchers acknowledge that the quest for justice remains elusive. Amanda Robillard, still grieving the loss of her family members, expressed, “There’s no justice. It’s sad,” capturing the lingering anguish and frustration felt by many in the community.
Conclusion
As communities come together to commemorate Red Dress Day and honor missing and murdered Indigenous individuals, it serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges and injustices faced by marginalized populations. The voices of the victims and their families echo through the streets, demanding accountability, visibility, and change. May their memory inspire action and solidarity in the pursuit of justice and reconciliation.”
Remember, honoring the victims of violence and advocating for a safer and more equitable society is a collective responsibility that each of us must uphold. Let us stand in solidarity with those affected by these tragedies, amplify their voices, and work towards a future where all individuals are valued, respected, and protected.”
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