May 5 is National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+). This day raises awareness of the extreme violence experienced by thousands of Indigenous women and gender-diverse people. It is also known as Red Dress Day. To learn more, view the timeline of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
In honour of MMIWG2S+, we have brought together a collection of library and community resources.
Resources at Kitchener Public Library
MMIWG2S+ Titles Available
There are a variety of MMIWGS+ titles available at Kitchener Public Library. Check out this list with items for various age groups.
Local Indigenous History
Jenny Nilsson, Community Researcher, helped break new ground in the Grace Schmidt Room of Local History at Kitchener Public Library. Nilsson identified diverse and marginalized members of Waterloo Region from 1851 to 1931. Through her efforts, over 1000 individuals from Indigenous, Black and other racialized communities were found in federal censuses. This opens more avenues for a retelling of local history from new perspectives.
Community Resources
Anishnabeg Outreach Employment and Training
Anishnabeg Outreach Employment and Training helps Indigenous people overcome barriers and connects them to services. They also run a variety of programs and provide resources ranging from reconciliation to employment.
Crow Shield Lodge
Crow Shield Lodge is focused on Indigenous land-based healing and education. They have an array of events from Men’s Sharing Circles to Full Moon Ceremonies. Check out a listing of their upcoming events.
Grand River Métis Council
The Grand River Métis Council aims to promote and preserve Métis culture in Waterloo Region. Their website hosts a wealth of resources and services, including the Métis Family Wellbeing Program. This program aims to prevent the cycle of violence that Métis women and youth may experience.
Healing of the Seven Generations
Healing of the Seven Generations addresses the intergenerational effects of the residential school system. They assist those suffering and raise awareness through their programming. They also offer teaching and community training sessions.
KW Urban Native Wigwam Project
The KW Urban Native Wigwam Project has been operating in Waterloo Region since 1987. They connect the Indigenous community to culturally safe and affordable housing.
Post-Secondary Indigenous Services
All college and universities in Waterloo Region have a sector related to Indigenous services. For more information, visit Conestoga College’s website for Indigenous Services, University of Waterloo’s website for the Office of Indigenous Relations and Wilfrid Laurier University’s websites for the Centre of Indigegogy and Indigenous Student Services.
White Owl Ancestry
White Owl Ancestry is an urban Indigenous organization centred around land-based practices. They also provide a variety of community programs and services.
Willow River Centre
The Willow River Centre is an open community space for Indigenous, racialized and 2SLGBTQIA+ people. They host events and have drop-in hours from Tuesday-Friday each week.
Wisahkotewinowak
Wisahkotewinowak is a local collective that creates urban Indigenous gardens in Waterloo Region and Wellington County. They facilitate various garden sites, outreach opportunities and events.
Kitchener Public Library is grateful for the ongoing work of these community organizations. We encourage you to explore these resources as we remember the missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people.