On the morning of May 3rd, 2024, SVDN members gathered to take part in our annual Walk Against Violence. Originally conceived as a memorial walk in honor of Heather Merrick who tragically lost her life more than 30 years ago in a case that, to this day, remains unsolved. In recent years, the walk has been moved to an earlier date to coincide with MMIW, which has been an ongoing issue in Canada and the United States.
Despite the uncooperative weather, the walk continued, as SVDN members knew the importance and proceeded to walk in the rain. After returning from the memorial site, members reconvened at the gazebo in the park to have a light lunch and take part in several presentations from community members, elders and those who wished to share a message about the importance of non-violence and the awareness of MMIW. We emphasize teaching our young men to respect women and to protect them, not because we feel they are weak, but because we know they are important. We teach our young women to respect themselves, to speak up when there is danger, and to support each other in times of need.
Sioux Valley remains committed to its annual walks and educating about violence, as well as the thousands of missing and murdered indigenous women across Canada and the United States. Together we can make a difference.
