Walking with our sisters

Definition

'Walking with our Sisters' is a commemorative art project and movement that honors the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals. The project involves the creation of handmade moccasin vamps that are displayed as a powerful visual representation of loss and resilience within Indigenous communities, fostering understanding and encouraging dialogue about the systemic violence faced by these individuals. By connecting art to advocacy, it serves as a catalyst for building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, promoting healing, awareness, and action against ongoing violence and discrimination.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Walking with Our Sisters' was initiated in 2013, inspired by the alarming rates of violence against Indigenous women across Canada and the United States.
2. The project features over 1,800 pairs of moccasin vamps, each representing an individual whose life has been affected by violence, creating a powerful visual memorial.
3. Art plays a crucial role in this initiative, as it engages community members in a creative process that fosters healing and empowers them to share their stories.
4. The project travels across North America, allowing communities to engage with the exhibit and learn more about the issues surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous women.
5. Through workshops and community involvement, 'Walking with Our Sisters' promotes education on Indigenous history and systemic discrimination, encouraging allyship among non-Indigenous people.

Review Questions

• How does 'Walking with Our Sisters' utilize art to address the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women?
  • 'Walking with Our Sisters' employs art as a medium to express grief and raise awareness about the ongoing violence against Indigenous women. By creating handmade moccasin vamps, community members participate in a collective healing process that brings attention to each individual's story. This artistic expression not only honors the victims but also invites dialogue among different communities, helping bridge gaps in understanding about these critical social issues.
• In what ways does 'Walking with Our Sisters' contribute to broader discussions on Indigenous rights and activism?
  • 'Walking with Our Sisters' is integral to broader discussions on Indigenous rights as it highlights systemic violence while calling for justice for missing and murdered Indigenous individuals. The project connects personal stories to larger narratives of colonialism and oppression faced by Indigenous peoples. It encourages advocacy by motivating participants and observers alike to engage in activism aimed at systemic change, thereby amplifying the voices of those affected by these injustices.
• Evaluate the impact that 'Walking with Our Sisters' has had on both Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous allies in terms of fostering understanding and promoting action.
  • 'Walking with Our Sisters' has significantly impacted both Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous allies by fostering empathy and understanding around the issues of missing and murdered Indigenous individuals. For Indigenous participants, it provides a space for healing through creative expression, while for non-Indigenous allies, it raises awareness about the harsh realities faced by these communities. This shared experience often translates into action, as many attendees are inspired to advocate for policy changes and support Indigenous rights initiatives, ultimately working toward dismantling systemic inequalities.

Related terms

Moccasin Vamps: 'Moccasin vamps' are the upper parts of traditional Indigenous footwear, which are often decorated and personalized in various styles. In the context of 'Walking with Our Sisters,' these vamps serve as a poignant symbol of the lives lost and the need for remembrance and justice.

Indigenous Activism: 'Indigenous activism' refers to the efforts and movements led by Indigenous peoples to address issues of rights, recognition, and justice. It encompasses a wide range of initiatives aimed at raising awareness about social injustices, including the violence against Indigenous women.

Two-Spirit: 'Two-Spirit' is a term used by some Indigenous cultures to describe a person who embodies both masculine and feminine qualities. The inclusion of Two-Spirit individuals in discussions around missing and murdered persons highlights the diverse experiences within Indigenous communities.