On June 21st we celebrated National Indigenous Peoples Day – A day where we can all recognize and celebrate the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Metis across Canada. Last month, the Hamilton Public Library hosted the Red Dress exhibit – a showcase of red dresses to symbolize missing and murdered Indigenous women and 2 spirit. The dresses ranged from adult sizes to infant. Some were tattered, others filthy with dirt, and one had tire marks running across it.
Statistics of crime against indigenous people are just as shocking. Indigenous women are 3x more likely than non-indigenous women to be victims of violence. 26 percent of indigenous women experienced sexual violence during their childhood vs only 9 percent on non-indigenous. Lastly, Indigenous people are twice as likely to have little or no confidence in their local police department.
Crime Stoppers is reaching out to members of the Indigenous Community. If you have a crime to report and are not comfortable speaking to Police, reach out to us. We keep all our tips 100% anonymous, we offer cash rewards, and we’re open to all communities 24-7 at 1 800 222 TIPS.
Please have a safe and happy Summer!
Hamilton, Stand Up Stand Together.
