Ceremony to be held at City Hall to Mark Red Dress Day

Peterborough, ON – A ceremony is taking place at City Hall, 500 George St. N., at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People (MMIWG2S). 

More commonly known as Red Dress Day, May 5 is held annually and acknowledges missing or murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited people, recognizing the disproportionately high rates of violence the Indigenous community faces.  

The ceremony at City Hall will include speeches, drumming and a smudging ceremony. Everyone is welcome.  

“This day is an important opportunity for our community to come together in remembrance, reflection and solidarity. We honour the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People, and acknowledge the ongoing impacts of violence and injustice faced by Indigenous communities. I encourage residents to join us at City Hall for this meaningful ceremony as we listen, learn and stand together in support of truth, healing and reconciliation,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.  

Red dresses will be hung in the windows of City Hall, 500 George St. N., beginning Monday, May 4, to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People, and remain in place until Friday, May 8.  

“The red dresses displayed in the windows of City Hall are a powerful symbol of the Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirited people who are missing or who have been taken too soon. They also represent the families and loved ones who continue to carry grief while searching for truth and justice. We invite the community to reflect on their meaning and join us in showing support, solidarity and a shared commitment to ending violence,” said Shelley Knott, Indigenous Advisor, City of Peterborough.  

The Urban Indigenous Working Group is hosting more activities in Confederation Square, across the street from City Hall, following the ceremony. Everyone is welcome to share tea, bannock and more hand drumming.