Medicine Bear Counselling, Support, and Elder Services- Honouring Red Dress Day
May 5, 2026
Medicine Bear Counselling, Support and Elder Services (MBC) provides families of Missing and Murdered women, girls, and Two-Spirited relatives the opportunity to heal from complicated grief and trauma within a culturally safe and supportive environment.
In recognition of Red Dress Day and the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ People (MMIWG2S+), the MBC program took part in a series of meaningful community events.
Leading up to Red Dress Day, MBC hosted a pin-making drop-in on May 4, open to all community members. Participants were invited to create red dress pins to wear during marches on May 5 or to show ongoing support for the MMIWG2S+ movement. The drop-in was well attended, with 25 community members coming together to create their pins.
On May 5, Red Dress Day, MBC staff and participants were present across multiple community gatherings and marches. The team wore red dress shirts designed by staff member Shelby Boulanger, creating a visible expression of solidarity throughout the day.
In the morning, MBC staff, alongside family members and program participants, gathered outside the Winnipeg Law Courts during the trial of Mackaylah Gerard-Roussin. During proceedings, Josh Benoit was convicted of first-degree murder in her death. The MBC team stood with Mackaylah’s family and community members to honour her memory and show support during this emotional day. From the Law Courts, the group joined the march to Oodena Circle at The Forks.
Later that evening, MBC staff and participants joined another community march from Oodena Circle to the Manitoba Legislative Building.
On May 13, MBC continued its support by attending a march for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Men and Boys (MMIMB) from Oodena Circle to the Legislative Building. The program also provided direct support to a participant who spoke at the Legislature, ensuring they were accompanied while sharing their voice.
MBC continues its ongoing commitment to walking alongside community members in truth, remembrance, and healing, while amplifying the voices and experiences of those most impacted.
For more information about the Medicine Bear Counselling, Support and Elder Services program and supports available to family members of MMIWG2S+, click HERE.