CW: The following discusses MMIWG2S and includes themes of violence, loss, and systemic injustice. May 5 marks the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). As an Indigenous-owned brand co-founded by Sarah, a Wolastoqiyik woman, we feel this issue deeply. This day serves as a crucial reminder that Indigenous lives continue to be lost at alarming rates. MMIWG2S encompasses countless lives lost and families torn apart. Colonialism and systemic racism have fueled this ongoing violence. For far too long, these heartbreaking losses have been met with silence and indifference, with officials labelling it a tragedy while sidestepping accountability. Our hearts ache for the many stolen Indigenous people — cherished children, parents, and friends who never came home. This sorrow is a daily reality in Indigenous communities. Yet, amidst the grief, there is a powerful resilience; we refuse to let their stories fade away or their voices be silenced. Raising awareness is essential. By seeking the truth about MMIWG2S and listening to Indigenous voices, We honour those who never made it home and walk beside those demanding change. Awareness breaks silence and ignites action. Here are 3 steps you can take today: 1. 💸Contribute to grassroots MMIWG2S initiatives or organizations. 2. 📣Learn from Indigenous voices. Engage with Indigenous storytellers and advocates through readings, videos, or podcasts, and then share what you discover. 3. 👣Join local events or vigils. Attend a Red Dress Day vigil, memorial walk, or community gathering. Wear red to honour those who are missing and to show families they are not alone. At Octopied Mind, we are committed to action. While our current donations at checkout (we're matching every dollar!) support Chay, an Indigenous teen in the OM community battling brain cancer, we also collect contributions year-round for Indigenous resilience, directing funds toward grassroots MMIWG2S organizations and residential school survivors. Woliwon ❤️ Art by: @morning.star.designs @artnerdforever @chiefladybird