Women's Memorial March

Sunny Zatzick (12)

The Women’s Memorial March has taken place every February 14th for the past 31 years to honour Indigenous women, children, and two spirited people who lost their lives to colonial violence. This centres around those in the downtown Eastside, whether missing or killed. Research from the Native Women’s Association of Canada shows that there could be as many as 4,000 MMIWG worldwide, while few are thoroughly investigated. Yesterday, thousands of people gathered to commemorate the murders against Indigenous women that have been called for, year after year, decade after decade, to be acted upon.

Beginning at noon at the intersection of Main and Hastings, those dressed in red looked to the sky as eagles, holding the significance of courage and wisdom, circled and watched overhead. Two young girls holding a basket of flowers lead the march, calling for recognition of the women who have lost their lives. Directly behind them walked Elders with medicine, families of victims, and drummers. Interspersed with speeches and songs were moments of silence, to recognize what this Memorial March truly was: a memorial. The silences were prompted as the march would pause every time an area someone who was missing or murdered was either last seen, or where their body was found. Grief was the communal feeling in the air, however for every grieving face there was one of resilience and courage next to it.

Smudges, done with burning sage leaves and an eagle’s feather to heal the heart, mind, and body, were taking place as well. Pink (which can represent unrequited love) flowers were passed out to many, as well as long colourful skirts. People of all ages could be found, whether with signs, drums, or flowers. Hundreds of signs with faces and names of different lost women were hung everywhere in commemoration and respect.

Photo by Sunny Zatzick

Pictured above is a sign with a photo of Chelsea Poorman and the words “Never Forget”. Chelsea was 24 when she was taken in 2020. Her body was found in 2022 outside a mansion in West Vancouver: one of the richest neighbourhoods in Canada. The VPD did everything but take Chelsea’s case seriously, both before and after her body was found. This was nothing new.

Rosanne Archibald, the nation chief of the assembly of First Nations, said “Every time we lose a woman, every time a woman is missing or murdered, that’s a part of that ongoing genocide. That genocide started with colonialism and colonization.”

If you are affected by MMIWG2S+ and need immediate emotional assistance, call 1-844-413-6649.