Remembering Cris Derksen We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Cris Derksen, an extraordinary artist, exceptional person, and beloved member of our community. Toronto Arts Council was lucky to have had Cris on our music committee for three years, during which time they gave generously of their wisdom and time to make our work better. Cris elevated discussions, broadened perspectives, and advocated fiercely and kindly for where change needed to happen. Cris performed at our 50th Anniversary celebration in 2024, and at the Mayor’s Evening for the Arts in 2023, both times wowing audiences with their prodigious talent and powerful performances. Cris leaves a tremendous legacy. Our thoughts are with Cris’s wife, Bobby, and with their family and loved ones in this incredibly difficult time. READ MORE ABOUT CRIS
May 5 Is Red Dress Day Today is Red Dress Day. Also known as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+), it’s an important day to reflect, learn, and raise awareness about this ongoing crisis. It’s also a day to support Indigenous communities, and to honour the lives of those missing and murdered. Red Dress Day was inspired by Métis artist Jamie Black after she hung hundreds of empty red dresses in public places to represent missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. It is said that the spirits that have passed see the colour red best; hanging a red dress helps the lost spirits find their way home. This violence is a direct result of colonization and racism. Lori Campbell, Associate Vice President of Indigenous Engagement at the University of Regina, said, “Indigenous people are sometimes thought of as less than and not as valuable as other women and girls, so people still to this day target Indigenous women because they think they won’t be missed.” She also said, “The chances are if you know an Indigenous person, they’re related to someone who’s gone missing or murdered; that’s how common it is.” In Canada, more than six in 10 Indigenous women have experienced physical or sexual assault in their lifetime. Here are some ways you can show support on May 5: Wear red and encourage others to wear red dresses, pins or shirts Join memorial walks, community fires, and smudging ceremonies Learn more through the resources below RESOURCES: Native Women’s Association of Canada Ontario Native Women’s Association Amnesty International Action Guide CMHA Ontario News Thank you to Kennedy Salloum for gathering these resources.