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Sisters In Spirit

Sisters in Spirit

Each year on October 4, communities across Canada gather for Sisters in Spirit Vigils — a national movement to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+).

These vigils are powerful acts of remembrance and resistance. They hold space for grief, love, and collective action, while demanding justice and safety for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ people.

What Sisters in Spirit Means

The Sisters in Spirit initiative began in 2004 through the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC). Its research and advocacy revealed the scope of systemic violence and documented over 582 missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

Since then, vigils have been held every October 4th across the country. Families, survivors, and communities gather to share memories, raise awareness, and stand together in solidarity.

While many people assume these tragedies happen elsewhere, Newfoundland and Labrador has also lost Indigenous women and girls to violence. Sisters in Spirit Vigils affirm that our loved ones matter, that our grief is shared, and that our voices will not be silenced.

Our Commitment at First Light

At First Light, we honour Sisters in Spirit through gatherings that centre ceremony, remembrance, and community care.

We are committed to amplifying voices, holding space for families, and working toward a future where all Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ people are safe, valued, and protected.

For more about Red Dress Day (May 5) and how it connects to this movement, please visit our Red Dress Day page.

Learn More

Download our 1-pager resource here:

How You Can Take Part

  • Attend or host a Sisters in Spirit Vigil on October 4
  • Educate yourself and others using the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into MMIWG2S+
  • Visit our Red Dress Day page to learn how these two movements are connected
  • Support Indigenous-led organizations working on the frontlines of this issue

The National Inquiry: Report Findings

In 2019, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls outlined 231 Calls for Justice. These are not just recommendations — they are legal and moral obligations aimed at addressing the deep-rooted causes of violence against First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women, girls, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse people.

The Calls for Justice demand action — from governments, institutions, and all people in Canada — to build a future where Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ people are safe and supported.

Support

If you, or someone you know is experiencing signs of distress, don’t hesitate to reach out to services available 24/7/365: