Every October 4th, Sisters In Spirit Vigils:

  • Honour the lives of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls;
  • Support grieving families and provide opportunities for healing; and,
  • Is a movement for social change.

United we can demand action on a Canadian issue that impacts us all!

Virtual Candlelight Vigil 2014

Each year on October 4th communities across Canada come together to honour the lives of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls. As we do so, we remember the lives of sisters, daughters, mothers and grandmothers tragically taken from us.

Each candle is a beacon of hope and strength.

Candles Lit In 2013: 323
Candles Lit In 2012: 624
Candles Lit In 2011: 141
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SIS Vigils

Events such as these have been going on since 2003, when NWAC and family members held peaceful demonstrations on the Hill. The first Sisters In Spirit Vigil was held on the steps of Parliament Hill in 2006.

Since the birth of the first SIS Vigil, cities have united on this issue from coast, to coast, to coast. Five years later, on October 4th 2010, a record 82 vigils were held nationwide drawing large crowds and unprecedented media attention.

What is a Vigil?

A vigil is an activity or event that brings attention to an issue or person. Sisters in Spirit Vigils are held every October 4th and raise awareness of the alarmingly high rates of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls in Canada.

Vigils come in all shapes and sizes (most of which cost nothing).

Some ideas include: Hearing from families, balloon launch, community feast, unity march, moment of silence, candlelight vigil, gathering at a local park, prayer service.

We hope this page inspires you to host your own vigil. For more information contact the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) at 1-800-461-4043.