A Call to the Church: Mobilize for Moosehide This May!

[Image credit: Moosehide Campaign Day]

Mother God, Beloved Christ and Sister Spirit,
May this moose hide
remind me of my commitment
to create and live in a society where Indigenous women, girls, and 2S-LGBTQIA+ people experience
the freedom to flourish within a healthy society that respects, values and cherishes the human rights and dignity of all people.
May I join with others to be a part of your healing and restoration.
Amen

This prayer, offered by the Rev. Dr. Alydia Smith, is a call to all in The United Church of Canada to participate in the Moosehide Campaign Day on Thursday, May 14!

Canada is in the midst of an ongoing national crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2S-LGBTQIA+ people. Canada has a long legacy of devaluing Indigenous peoples—in particular Indigenous women, girls, and 2S-LGBTQIA+ people.  Many believe that they do not matter, and that it is acceptable to commit acts of violence upon them. Indigenous peoples lack the legal protection that others receive. This is racism.

The Moosehide Campaign is a call to all people in Canada to take a stand against racism and for justice. This year we are hoping for a record United Church turn-out at the virtual events, local walks to end violence, and fasts to end violence.

National events include a sunrise ceremony, educational plenary, and workshops (all available via livestream), as well as the Moosehide Day Rally on the grounds of the Ontario legislature at Queen’s Park in Toronto from noon to 1:30 p.m.. You can register for virtual events (including livestream links to all the national campaign day events).

Local marches are being organized across the country. Find your local march on the map, or register to become a community steward and organize your own events.

We are calling on United Church members, friends, and communities of faith to take a stance against racism and for justice. If you are in Southern Ontario (or beyond!), come to Toronto and join us for the rally! If you are elsewhere across the country, join in local marches or organize your own!

Stay tuned to this newsletter, the Indigenous Ministries Facebook page and United Church social media for updates!