A group of people gathered at Sarnia City Hall Wednesday to remember Indigenous women, girls, and two spirited people (MMIWG) who were murdered or are missing.
Beginning at city hall, a memorial march took place with drums through downtown to the waterfront for a flag raising at the Seaway Centre Parkette.
This is the 33rd year for the march, which is held every Valentine's Day in honour of an Indigenous Vancouver woman who was murdered in 1991.
"As we stand here today to remember and honour missing and murdered Indigenous women, the best way we can do that is to use our voices on their behalf," said Jennifer Meharey, a member of Sarnia's United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples committee. "It's easy to feel like a single voice isn't enough but coming together like we are today is a testament to the fact that together many voices have power."
Some speakers told their stories about who they have lost, including Marina Plain who told the group she lost her daughter.
Executive Director of the Sarnia-Lambton Native Friendship Centre Donna Smith Sutherland said the event is to acknowledge the women, the grief, and compassion for the women who are experiencing violence now.
"I think it's important to know and acknowledge almost every single one of us as Indigenous people are connected to somebody or someone who has been missing and murdered," she said.
Former Kettle and Stony Point First Nation Chief Jason Henry said it's up to everyone to raise awareness for MMIW.
"We have to stand up and protect our sisters," he said.
Meharey also spoke to those who are impacted by MMIWG.
"To the families who have lost loved ones we see you. We bear witness to your experience and your ongoing healing journey and we stand with you in demanding actions so, there are no more stolen sisters," she said.
The flag is now raised and can be seen along the waterfront downtown Sarnia.
